Some voters alarmed by self-declaration requirement on mail-in ballots for Alberta referendum
Voters in Alberta are expressing concern over a self-declaration requirement on mail-in ballots for an upcoming referendum. Although Elections Alberta clarified that the specific language regarding the inability to vote in person does not apply to this referendum, the confusing documentation has caused significant anxiety among the public.
Why it matters
Clear communication in electoral processes is essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring voter participation in democratic exercises.
Emma Wilkins said when she opened her special ballot Wednesday evening, she was shocked to see one of the self-declaration requirements — with a warning — on the first page.
“I feel really like I don't know what to do next, and [I’m] disheartened,” the Edmonton voter said.
The special ballot package she received says voters are required to declare they aren’t able to vote at an in-person polling station before or on election day before they fill out the mail-in ballots. It says the penalty for a false declaration could be a fine of up to $50,000 or imprisonment of up to two years, or both.
Elections Alberta says while voters still need to self-declare things like that they are Canadian citizens and are 18 or older, the language seen in the voting packages about not being able to vote in person doesn't apply to the Oct. 19 referendum.
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