Establishment and Implementation of Campaign Finance Legal Framework
Biennial Conference of the Commonwealth Electoral Network 2016 in Port of Spain, Trinidad discussed the importance of regulating campaign finance to prevent negative influences on elections. The key issues, opportunities, challenges, and implementation strategies were highlighted to create an effective legal framework for campaign finance. The conclusion emphasized the significance of legislation, oversight institutions, and monitoring mechanisms in maintaining a successful campaign finance regime.
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BIENNIAL CONFERENCE OF THE COMMONWEALTH ELECTORAL NETWORK 2016 BIENNIAL CONFERENCE OF THE COMMONWEALTH ELECTORAL NETWORK 2016 Port of Spain, Trinidad Establishment and Implementation of Legal Framework for Campaign Finance JUNE 22 - 24, 2016
INTRODUCTION Campaign Finance is: The establishment of limits and effective monitoring of the source and amount of funds to be used in an election campaign (with enforcement of agreed sanctions for non-compliance)
THE ISSUE Unregulated flow of money into campaigns and the possible negative influences and outcomes: Elected representatives being forced to operate in a way beneficial to financiers instead of the electorate. Candidates with the ability and the will to do the job being brushed aside and replaced by inept, self-serving but well- financed individuals. The financiers being able to hijack the system
OPPORTUNITIES Global awareness of the problem Increased knowledge, awareness and access to information by the general public The existence of other models around the world which can be used as a reference point The availability and willingness of international donor agencies to aid the process and provide guidance There is also the emergence of a new breed of politicians in some areas who are conscious of the impact of unregulated funds as well as of the need to listen to their constituents.
CHALLENGES Acceptance of the status quo as a way of life Resistance to change Reluctance of donors to be named
IMPLEMENTATION Need for political parties to be registered and become legal entities with reporting statutory responsibilities. Broad based approach where stakeholders are engaged as part of the discussion from the start. Place the issue into the public sphere to engage the interest of the man in the street. Engage all political stakeholders and not just the dominant ones Meet with and take suggestions from civil society groups Phased implementation should not be ruled out.
CONCLUSION The establishment of the legislation is a very important first step. The establishment of oversight institutions and monitoring mechanisms with appropriate penalties and incentives are critical to the successful establishment and maintenance of the campaign finance regime in any jurisdiction. THE END
