The proposed amendment divides the current article into two parts. Draft Article 192.1 penalises vote-buying, defined as “handing over money, material values or assisting in obtaining any position or another benefit” in general, without specifying the subject of the offence. This offence would be punishable by a fine of IV category. Draft Article 192.2 establishes more severe sanctions if the same offence is committed by a candidate, his/her proxies or authorised representatives: a fine of V category or deprivation of liberty of I category.¹⁶ A candidate’s spouse and relatives are omitted from this new provision.

¹⁶ A fine of V category is currently between KGS 100,000 and 120,000 for juveniles and between KGS 220,000 and 260,000 for adults. Deprivation of liberty of I category is for up to 1.5 years for juveniles and up to 2.5 years for adults.