Life sentences, hefty fines proposed for election crimes

Persons waiting in line to vote at Bel Air Primary on March 2, 2020

More than a year and a half removed from attempts to rig the general and regional elections, government has released proposed amendments setting out processes to be followed for the declaration of results along with penalties ranging from millions in fines to life imprisonment for violations.

The Ministry of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs released draft amendments to the Representation of the People Act (RoPA) on Friday in keeping with President Irfaan Ali’s directive to publicise the intended amendments by the end of this week in order for planned consultations.

Last week, Ali told a virtual press conference six weeks will be given for the review and comments on the amendments after which it would be laid before the National Assembly.