- By: M Asif Qureshi (Chairman E-hujra of Bannu)
In the intricate web of democratic processes, the roles played by individuals during elections are crucial in ensuring a fair, transparent, and efficient electoral system. As we approach the 2024 general elections in Pakistan, it becomes imperative to understand the diverse responsibilities carried by key election personnel.
- Presiding Officer
The Presiding Officer holds a central role in the electoral process. Charged with maintaining order and integrity within the polling station, the officer oversees the entire voting procedure. Responsibilities include assigning tasks to Poll Clerks, ensuring accurate polling, safeguarding the secrecy of the ballot, and managing the opening and closing of the polling building. The Presiding Officer works tirelessly from 6:30 am to 10:00 pm, earning approximately £350 for their day’s dedication.
- Duties
Before Election Day, the Presiding Officer is involved in training sessions, liaising with polling station contacts, and coordinating key arrangements. On Election Day, their duties range from transporting ballot boxes and setting up polling booths to facilitating voters, supervising Poll Clerks, and managing the overall voting process.
- Working Hours and Breaks
With a workday of approximately 17 hours, Presiding Officers are required to remain on-site, providing their own refreshments and taking necessary breaks to combat fatigue.
- Person Specification
- Essential:
- Previous experience working at a Polling Station on at least two occasions.
- Ability to work independently under pressure.
- Access to a car insured for business use.
- Literate and numerate.
- Good timekeeping.
- Ability to remain politically neutral.
- Compliance with secrecy requirements and social media instructions.
- Acceptance of waiving the Working Time Directive.
- Desirable:
- Previous line-management or supervisory experience.
- Previous customer-service experience.
- Diplomacy and tact when working with the public.
- Working knowledge of the electoral process.
- Poll Clerk
Poll Clerks play a vital role in supporting the Presiding Officer and ensuring a smooth voting process. Their responsibilities encompass setting up polling stations, issuing ballot papers, checking voter identification, and maintaining the secrecy of the ballot. Poll Clerks work from 6:30 am to 10:00 pm, earning approximately £200 for their dedication.
- Duties
Before Election Day, Poll Clerks attend training sessions. On Election Day, they assist in setting up polling booths, preparing the polling station, helping voters understand identification requirements, issuing ballot papers, and facilitating the entire voting process.
- Working Hours and Breaks
Poll Clerks work for approximately 16 hours on Election Day, with a need to remain on-site, providing their own refreshments, and taking breaks to prevent exhaustion.
- Person Specification
- Essentials:
- Literate and numerate.
- Good timekeeping.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Ability to treat people fairly and respectfully.
- Ability to remain politically neutral.
- Compliance with secrecy requirements and social media instructions.
- Acceptance of waiving the Working Time Directive.
- Desirable:
- Experience working at a polling station.
- Previous customer-service experience.
- Diplomacy and tact when working with the public.
- Count Assistant
Count Assistants play a pivotal role in the post-voting phase, ensuring accurate counting of ballots. Responsibilities include verifying ballot box contents, counting votes for each candidate, and maintaining impartiality throughout. Count Assistants work for approximately five to six hours, earning approximately £90 for their efforts.
- Duties
Count Assistants work in teams, counting ballot papers, dividing votes, identifying doubtful papers, and adhering to health and safety regulations. They must sign an agreement to maintain the secrecy of the poll.
- Person Specification
- Essential:
- Literate and numerate.
- Ability to handle and count large volumes of confidential papers.
- Good timekeeping.
- Ability to treat people with fairness and respect.
- Ability to remain politically neutral.
- Compliance with secrecy requirements and social media instructions.
- Must not have been convicted of an offense under Electoral Legislation.
- Desirable:
- Ability to work as a team member.
- Previous experience as a Count Assistant.
- In conclusion, these detailed job descriptions shed light on the intricate tasks undertaken by election personnel. As we approach the 2024 general elections in Pakistan, it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the commitment and diligence of these individuals in upholding the democratic process.