North Korea recorded a 99.98% turnout in the nationwide local elections that took place on Sunday. This was an improvement of 0.01% on the previous elections which took place in 2015. During the nationwide elections, only those who were overseas either on a foreign tour or working in the oceans were allowed to skip the elections. In North Korea, elections are just like any other political ritual considering there is no competition for those elected. As per reports from observers, the elections gives authorities the chance to get a popular mandate while at the same time reinforcing loyalty to Kim’s regime.
Mobile Ballot Boxes
In the just concluded elections, every North Korea whether sick or old took part in the exercise. For those who are having problems like health complications, there were mobile ballot boxes that were specifically set aside for them.The high voter turn-out is seen by the regime as an example of its “single-minded unity” to glorify the “Korean-style-people-centered-socialism”. These elections are held after every four years to choose representatives toprovincial, city and county assemblies. Actually, 99% of voters take part in the elections with the entire population casting “Yes” votes for uncontested candidates.
North Korean Leader Took Part in the Elections
North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un, was also part of the voters as he casted his vote in North Hamgyong province. Kim casted his votes for two candidates, Jong Song Sik and Ju Song Ho who were running for county assemblies in the area as per reports from KCNA. While casting his votes, he warmly encouraged the candidates to become the faithful servants of the people by fulfilling their duties so as to live up to the anticipation of the people.
The election of deputies to municipal, district and county people’s assembles are held after four years. Sunday’s local elections are just the second to have taken place ever since Kim Jong Un took power. When casting their ballots, the voters only have to choose between the candidates approved by the ruling party or simply register your abstention on the ballot. This leaves little room for choosing leaders who are going to serve the needs of voters.
In 2014, Kim had run for the position of rubber stamp legislature commonly known as the Supreme People’s Assembly. Just like most candidates, he managed a perfect turnout with 100% of the votes cast in his favor.
While casting his vote, the North Korean leader was in the company of senior officials from the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea (WPK) and Central Committee including Jo Yong Won, the first vice director of the Organization Guidance Department (OGD). Ri Yong Sik and Hyon Song Wol who happen to be officials from the party’s Propaganda and Agitation Department (PAD) were also in attendance. Even though the elections are considered to be free and fair, it is not exactly this since voters must vote for leaders who have been chosen by the ruling party.