I have concerns about the recent election for the West Mercia Police Commissioner. There were 5 party political candidates and one independent yet I struggled to find any media interest or information about the candidates. I did finally manage to read the brief statements on the web.
I tried to raise awareness. Just 2 days before, some did not know the election was happening. Many questioned how they could make a valid choice - even the few who had also succeeded on the internet were not happy with the write ups about the candidates - mainly about their plans for what they would do if they became PCC with little about their backgrounds, experience or qualifications.
Participation in West Mercia was just over 20%. Looking at the web for the response in the 2012 election I noted that Shropshirelive.com reported then, 'The Electoral Reform Society has said polling stations were “standing empty” yesterday, and called for those responsible for “avoidable errors” in the delivery of the elections to be held to account.' Who organised and paid for this election? Were no lessons learnt?
What does it say about the involvement of the constituency? The whole process is opaque and unacceptable. In a democracy we should be able to have effective connection to those representing us.
Barbara Ferris
Dinedor
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