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Rustad says independent review best course of action for BC election mishaps

BC Conservatives leader John Rustad is calling for an independent review into some of the mistakes made during the ballot counting process in this year’s provincial election.

Elections BC has called for a judicial recount in the Prince George-Mackenzie riding after a ballot box containing 861 votes went uncounted due to an unintentional human error.

Rustad told Vista Radio while Premier David Eby has countered with an all-party to examine the systems that were used, there is one small issue with that suggestion.

“The problem with that is it’s partisan. The government gets to control it as well as its terms of reference and that is why it needs to be independent. It will provide a full scope in terms of reference and be able to look and reassure people that what is going on in BC can be trusted.”

“Democracy is a delicate instrument but it’s critical. If we don’t have confidence in democracy and in the process where does that leave us in terms of governing and as a society and rule of law. That is why it’s important we have that confidence in our democratic process.”

Conservative candidate Kiel Giddens was declared the winner of the riding and the re-count will not impact the outcome.

Elections BC says the recount should be completed by November 12th.

 

Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].

Brendan Pawliw
Brendan Pawliw
Since moving to Prince George in 2015, Brendan has covered local sports including the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, Prince George Spruce Kings, UNBC Timberwolves, Cariboo Cougars AAA, and Northern Capitals U18 female hockey teams. Career highlights include play-by-play during the Spruce Kings' BCHL championship runs in 2018 and 2019, including the Doyle Cup win. He also covered the 2019 National Junior A Championship, the 2017 Telus Cup, the 2022 World Women’s Curling Championship, and the 2022 BC Summer Games. Brendan is the news voice on 94.3 The Goat and Country 97 FM, reporting on crime, real estate, labour, and environmental issues. Outside of work, he officiates box lacrosse and fastball, sits on the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame board, and co-hosts the Hockey North podcast.

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