IV. DISCUSSION OF THE DRAFT LOCAL ELECTION LAW

Electoral systems for local elections

The draft law is unclear as to what is intended by “majority system”.  Article 47(2) specifically uses the phrase “majority system”. However, Article 60(1), which specifically references Article 47(2), uses the phrase “multi-member constituencies”. It might be assumed that some form of “first past the post” or plurality voting occurs where there are multiple candidates in a single electoral constituency and that multiple mandates are allocated based on the highest number of votes obtained by the candidates. However, this assumption may not be sound as Article 60(1) states that the “number of multi-member constituencies and the number of mandates in each of them are determined by the relevant election commissions in accordance with requirements provided for in legislation.” Without review of the other pertinent legislation, it is also not possible to assess the consequences that such a system will have on minorities and women in local elections.