Title: Semi-electronic voting: a technological advance for transparent elections
Introduction :
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) recently published the results of the December 20, 2023 presidential election using a new semi-electronic voting device. This technology, adopted in 2018, combines the use of the secure paper ballot with an electronic system for counting and transmitting results. However, questions arise regarding the publication of the results by the CENI and the reliability of this system. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how semi-electronic voting works and its impact on election transparency.
Semi-electronic voting: a combination of technology and manual counting
The semi-electronic voting adopted by the CENI is based on the use of secure paper ballots which are counted manually at the same time as an electronic device supporting the voting process, aggregation and transmission of results. This mechanism makes it possible to automate the counting of votes using a computer system, which speeds up the compilation and publication of the results.
The divergence of results: a question of confidence
Despite the advantages of semi-electronic voting, discrepancies between the results of manual counting and those of the electronic device may occur. According to the electoral law, in the event of a discrepancy, the CENI must carry out investigations to correct the error at the local results compilation center. This raises questions about the confidence that can be placed in the results published by the CENI.
The need for rigorous verification of results
It is essential that semi-electronic voting results be rigorously verified to ensure the integrity of the electoral process. It is imperative that the CENI carries out a cross-check with the results of the manual counting at the local results compilation centers. This transparency strengthens voter confidence in the electoral process and helps avoid any future challenges.
Conclusion :
Semi-electronic voting, adopted by the CENI during the presidential election of December 20, 2023, represents an important technological advance to guarantee the transparency of elections. However, it is crucial that the CENI carries out rigorous verification of the results by comparing the data from the electronic device with the results of the manual count. This approach is essential to preserve voter confidence in the electoral process and ensure the legitimacy of the published results.