By Hikithe Achumi

 

We have the right to vote in free and fair elections. This is one of the most fundamental aspects of our democracy, and it’s something that we should all be fighting to protect. Unfortunately, in recent years, we’ve seen some pretty egregious examples of voter suppression and election fraud.

 

With the 2023 election right around the corner, it’s more important than ever that we stand up for our democracy and demand a clean election.
What is a clean election?

 

What does it mean for an election to be clean? The term can be interpreted a few different ways, but at its core, a clean election is one in which the process is free from corruption and interference.

 

To be honest, corruption begins with the student bodies. We educated people have a tendency to fall for a few thousand rupees that last only a day or a week. So, my dear Nagas, let us band together and strive for a better tomorrow. Our victory will be determined by the extent of our sacrifice.

 

This includes ensuring that candidates are fairly chosen and that votes are counted accurately. It also means that voters are able to participate freely and without intimidation, and that the media is able to report on the election freely. Elections can only be considered clean if all stakeholders- candidates, voters, poll workers, etc- adhere to the rules and regulations set up to ensure fairness.

 

Why is a clean election important?

A clean election is important because it ensures that the voice of the people is heard. When the process is dirty, it opens up opportunities for corruption and skews the results in favor of those with wealth and power. A clean election is a cornerstone of democracy, and we must fight to protect it.

 

 

What are some of the ways to ensure a clean election?

Ensuring a clean election is critical to the health of our democracy. There are a number of ways to do this, but some are more essential than others.

 

First and foremost, we need to have accurate and secure voter rolls. This means removing people who have died or moved and preventing people from voting more than once.

 

We also need to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to vote by expanding early voting and same-day registration, and by ensuring that polling places are accessible to everyone. Voting machines should be checked for accuracy, and all votes must be counted and reported accurately.

 

Finally, we need to make sure that there is no corruption or wrongdoing by those in power. We need honest elections in which the will of the people is accurately reflected in the results.

 

 

What are the consequences of a dirty election?

There are a few consequences of a dirty election. The first is that it undermines democracy. When candidates and elected officials are able to win through unfair means, it casts doubt on the legitimacy of the entire system.

 

Corruption also has serious financial consequences for countries. It diverts resources away from public goods and services and into the pockets of corrupt elites. This can lead to instability and even violence as people fight for control over these valuable resources.

 

Finally, a dirty election can have a devastating impact on human rights. Candidates and parties that engage in electoral fraud often trampled on the rights of their opponents, including the right to free speech and assembly. They also suppress the media and engage in other forms of censorship.

 

 

How can we fight for a clean election?

So, what can we do to fight for a clean election and protect our democracy? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Vote! Make your voice heard and cast your vote for the candidate you believe in.

2. Get involved in the political process, volunteer on a campaign, attend a rally or town hall meeting, or donate to your favorite political cause.

3. Educate yourself about the issues and candidates. read up on their positions and what they stand for, and ask questions.

4. Stand up to election fraud and vote suppression. If you see something that doesn’t seem right, speak up! Report any suspicious activity or irregularities to your local election officials.

5. Finally, keep speaking out! even after the election is over, stay engaged and stay vocal about the importance of democracy and clean elections.

 

Conclusion

A clean election is the foundation of democracy. When our elections are free from corruption and manipulation, we can be sure that the voices of the people are heard. We need to fight for our democracy and ensure that every vote is counted fairly and that our elections are fair and transparent.

 

 

Mokokchung Times

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