The Deputy Governor’s Office is inviting comments on a draft Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates in preparation for the next General Elections.

The Cabinet of the Virgin Islands recently noted and approved the recommendations from the 2015 General Elections Report including a Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates during an electoral process.

Acting Permanent Secretary in the Deputy Governor’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt- Igwe explained that an electoral code of conduct is intended to keep the election campaign within acceptable limits, avoid clashes and conflicts between political parties or their supporters. It is aimed at ensuring order and avoid disruptions during the campaign period and until the results are declared.   

Mrs. Stoutt-Igwe said that the draft code was developed after conducting research and is being circulated for feedback from political parties, candidates and other stakeholders. She said anyone with an interest to review the draft is welcomed to do so and submit feedback to the Deputy Governor’s Office.

It is anticipated that the feedback will be incorporated and submitted to be included in a schedule in the amended Elections Act, 2018.

The draft code is comprised of 11 sections, namely: Purpose of Code; General Principles; Application; Public Commitment, Prohibited Conduct: Politically-Motivated Violence or Intimidation; Prohibited Conduct: other Prohibited Acts; Compliance; and Duty to Cooperate; Conduct during Polling Period; Announcement of Results of Election and Respect for Media and Journalists.  

The Acting Permanent Sectary stated that persons have until Monday, November 12 to provide feedback on the draft Code. All comments and concerns should be sent via email to ahill@gov.vg.

The Deputy Governor’s Office is committed to promoting conditions that are conducive to free and fair elections and a climate of tolerance in which electioneering activity may take place without fear or coercion, intimidation or reprisals.

NOTE:

• Photo: Official Photograph of Acting Permanent Secretary in the Deputy Governor’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt- Igwe.
• Document: Draft code of conduct for Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates.