Summary
No opportunity should exist to falsify or to substitute ballot papers.
Obligations
Election Parts
Quotes
- At the count observers should pay particular attention to the following points:...the security of the papers at all stages of the count; checking that there is no opportunity to falsify or substitute papers.
- The counting process in turn requires measures to ensure that ballot boxes are empty before voting begins, that they are secure when polling stations are closed, or during any period of transit, and that votes are tallied in a process that inspires confidence in the electorate.
- Appropriate steps should also be taken to ensure the security of the ballot papers, the ballot boxes and other polling equipment at all stages. Whenever ballot boxes are open they should be in full view of any party polling agents present and whenever they are sealed any party agents present should have the opportunity to inspect the official seals and, where appropriate, affix their own. When boxes are transported to counting centres provision should be made where possible to enable party agents to travel on the same vehicles as the boxes and to accompany them throughout. When it is necessary to store boxes containing uncounted ballots overnight an opportunity should be afforded to party agents to be present in the immediate vicinity of the boxes, together with appropriate security guards.
- [V]oting slips must not be tampered with or marked in any way by polling station officials.