In reality the process starts with rumour and debate. Elections are not just suddenly announced and there will be a trigger – it could be expiry of term of a significant destabilising event – whatever the reason there will be activity leading up to an Election announcement that ends with the Announcement/s – the date of the election/s and some information about the process to follow. These are the first opportunities to create a solid foundation for the election.
With well planned and executed communication, clarity of intent and clear direction the effect on the Electorate will be to build understanding and confi dence. Engagement is much more likely. The consequence of bad communication and/or readiness is confusion and early cynicism.
“Delays in announcing the electoral calendar and a timetable for electoral preparations caused many political parties, civil society organisations and citizens to question INEC’s capacity to conduct the 2007 polls. Delays persisted even after the enactment of the Electoral Act 2006, although the Act provides a timetable for the completion of certain election-related activities. Rather than release a single, comprehensive timeline, which would have enhanced citizen confidence in the process, INEC released limited information intermittently. INEC did not produce a comprehensive election timetable, with firm election dates, until August 2006”
“Politicians show a disdain for the sovereign will of the people and evince a determination to win at all cost."