Monday, September 15, 2008

BALLOT NOT SECRET, COURT TOLD

Swazi Observer


12 September 2008


Elections: Trusty Gina proceeds to next stage

FORMER Deputy Parliament Speaker Trusty Gina, who was dragged to High Court by her competitors following alleged irregularities in the primary elections Mndobandoba Umphakatsi, proceeds to the final stage.

This follows a decision by Justice Mbutfo Mamba, who dismissed an application brought by Sazi Ngcamphalala and four others.

Judge Mamba ordered the applicants to pay Gina costs for having dragged to court.

Professor Msibi, representing Ngcamphalala, had contended that there was no secrecy during voting in the primary elections.

Msibi submitted that the people were able to see the person voted for.

He argued that the doctrine of secrecy was heavily compromised.

Msibi further said another anomaly was that an unregistered voter, Hans Steffen, voted on behalf of his father, who could not make it to the polling station due to his disability.

The judge, in his judgement, declared Steffen's vote as a spoilt ballot paper.

Regarding the doctrine of secrecy issue, Justice Mamba found no anomalies.

The Umphakatsi's ballot papers had been brought to the High Court for inspection.

The umphakatsi is under Nkilongo Constituency.

The Elections and Boundaries Commission was represented by Joseph Mahlinza while Titus Mlangeni appeared for former Deputy Parliament Speaker Trusty Gina, who was the overall winner.

Link http://www.observer.org.sz/main.php?id=46808&section=main

No comments: