Amendment to Electoral Act Allows Public Service Members to Run for National Assembly Without Resigning

The Urban and Rural Development minister, Erastus Uutoni, introduced an urgent amendment to Section 77 of the Electoral Act, allowing remunerated public service members to be nominated for National Assembly elections without resigning from their jobs. The Electoral Amendment Bill enables these members to use their leave days during the election period and return to their positions if they do not secure a seat. This change aims to uphold constitutional rights, ensure smooth electoral processes, and expand candidate eligibility. Candidates who win seats will be considered resigned from the public service from the election results announcement date.