It takes 6 seats off Labor, but the WAEC has officially declared all 59 lower house seats in a 2025 election. In the meantime, vote counting continues for seven at-large seats and the new redistricted Legislative Council. This is the second election that the WAEC has administered. They oversaw the 2021 elections in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The commission is committed to keeping the process on track despite a tumultuous last stretch. They hope to release the Legislative Council count results by mid-April.
Robert Kennedy, the new Electoral Commissioner, is on extended, unforeseen leave. He tries to reassure us that his absence won’t derail the counting. In his statement, Premier Roger Cook was particularly dismayed by some nonsensical circumstances that pervaded the election, calling them “unacceptable.”
Complexities of the Legislative Council Count
The number for the Legislative Council is proving to be almost as complicated. With many voters choosing to vote for a mix of parties above the line on their ballot, this has produced perhaps the most surprising twist of this extraordinary election. This complexity has extended the length of time necessary to count, making matters more complicated. Despite this, the WAEC is still hopeful that they will finish the count within their expected timetable.
“The count for the Legislative Council continues to be on track with results expected to be finalised in the second week of April.” – WAEC
The WAEC has yet again promised the public that their process is on course and moving along as scheduled.
Temporary Workforce and Polling Issues
The 2025 election became an important focal point. This was the first state election since WAEC entered into a contract with PERSOLKELLY to provide a temporary election workforce. Though many polling booths faced serious challenges, Mr. Kennedy downplayed their effect.
“Only a small number” of booths had experienced problems. – Robert Kennedy
The WAEC has refused several interview requests. Further, they confirmed that it would not make Mr. Kennedy available for comment until every vote count is tallied.
Assurance of Results and Future Steps
Ensuring that the writ for the Legislative Assembly is returned by early next week. This comes after the filing of all required certifications.
“The writ for the Legislative Assembly will be returned once all declarations are complete, which is anticipated to be by the end of next week.” – WAEC
Premier Cook’s criticism goes to show that rising above these electoral challenges is necessary in order to protect the public confidence in our elections going forward.
