Semi-Electronic Voting in Africa: Pros and Cons

Preface

Given that the researcher is engaged in research the ultimate goal is to mitigate problems, inconsistencies and confusion by providing useful recommendations, as well as, appropriate solutions. The scope of this study is on the improvement of understanding especially on the Semi-Electronic voting, a concept that may not be well-understood by many. In a bid to attain this, we engage in a voyage to unravel the traditional voting phenomena, the Electronic system, and the Semi-Electronic voting process, which is geared towards shedding light. Indeed, the story is stretched to discuss any other related hindrances and holistically recommend evasive action to eschew impediments to the promotion of free and objective elections.

Our discussion is further enriched through the taking of DR Congo as a practical example. Going into its domains, sectors, and the cities that are pinpointing on the nuanced understanding of the said topic.

In the advent of developing this work, I acknowledge various individuals who have a significant role in my life. I thank my dad, Jose Betofe and my mum, Samba Luyangu and my father-in-law Alphonse Mukobo who never wavered in their support for me. My dear wife Merveille Lucie Betofe, your constant encouragement and insight into the complicated aspects of this project have meant much to me.

I would like to mention my brothers Guyve, Riana, and Joel specifically. The process was equally rewarding to develop intellectually but also fulfilling and even necessary to develop for the emotional reward you have provided – your supportive comradeship and united enthusiasm for knowledge.

This piece is a work that attests to the co-work of those that have been an inspiration and a source of strength to me. With a deep sense of thankfulness, I would like to express my gratitude to my family members who contributed to the formation of a person and a researcher I am currently.

Special thanks to Pastor Eric Malau for invaluable assistance and to Mr. Christian Tshiangala for providing crucial data, pivotal to the success of this project

Keyta Betofe

Introduction

The question of how we vote in democratic societies has evolved beyond the traditional pen-and-paper method. In light of technological advancements and longstanding principles of representation, exploring semi-electronic voting is crucial across Africa.

Is It Feasible to Implement the Semi-Electronic Voting Method in Africa? prompts an examination into electoral practices on the continent, weighing potential benefits and challenges that come with introducing a partial electronic approach to voting. With historical context considered alongside current socio-political landscape specifics unique to African nations, this exploration aims to discern feasibility for such transformative change.

Join us on a journey not just through technology but incorporating aspirations as well as hurdles & values integral towards building diverse democracies throughout Africa's tapestry-like makeup.

1  Overview of Voting Methods

The following chapter offers a concise overview of diverse methods employed for voting. It explores the historical background, operational complexities and distinct attributes linked with conventional paper-based balloting systems, digital surveys as well as partially computerized procedures utilized to cast ballots.

1.1 Traditional Paper Voting Method

The conventional way of voting using paper involves voters indicating their selections on physical ballots, which are subsequently tallied manually or through optical readers. This technique is extensively employed and generally deemed uncomplicated and recognizable as it provides a certifiable documentation for authentication and evaluation objectives.

Approach: Voters use pens or pencils to designate their picks onto the ballot papers.

Tallying: Voting officials total up the votes by hand.

Merits: The method's benefits include its familiarity, openness (as individuals can tangibly examine and validate their vote on hard copies), along with its apparent simplicity.

1.2 Centuries of Evolution: A Concise History of Traditional Paper Voting

1. Ancient Origins: the traditional paper voting method goes back to the very roots of ancient democracies. For instance, in Athens the citizens took part directly in the decision-making process. They wrote down on pieces of broken pottery shards or used more pebbles than necessary to indicate their preferred candidates.

2. Papyrus and Early Forms of Paper Ballots: as civilizations progressed, the use of papyrus and paper increased. This led to the development of paper ballots, which let voters mark or write down their choices.

3. Evolution of Voting Materials: as time passed, the stuff used for casting votes changed. Although the primitive ballots may have only been scraps of paper, later improvements produced standardized ballot forms.

4. Secret Ballot Concept: the idea of the secret ballot came to prominence in the 19th century. The idea was to give voters privacy, so that they could vote with the thought of not being watched.

5. Introduction of Voting Booths: to further enhance the privacy of the voting process, dedicated voting booths were introduced. These enclosed spaces allowed voters to mark their ballots in secrecy before depositing them in a sealed box.

6. Manual Counting and Tabulation: the traditional paper voting method often involved manual counting of the paper ballots by election officials. Transparency in the counting process was maintained, with results being publicly tallied.

7. Technological Advancements in Counting: as technology progressed, innovations such as optical scan systems were introduced to expedite the counting process. These systems automated parts of the tabulation, reducing the likelihood of human errors.

8. Challenges and Concerns: despite its long-standing history, the traditional paper voting method faced challenges. Issues like ballot stuffing, miscounts, and the potential for human error were persistent concerns.

9. Coexistence with Technological Solutions: in response to efficiency concerns and a desire for faster results, some regions transitioned to electronic voting systems. However, many countries continued to use traditional paper ballots alongside electronic methods, allowing voters a choice in how they cast their votes.

10. Symbol of Democratic Participation: throughout its evolution, the traditional paper voting method has remained a symbol of democratic participation. It emphasizes the importance of individual choice and the integrity of the electoral process.

11. Diverse Methods in Contemporary Elections: in modern times, diverse methods coexist. Some countries have embraced fully electronic systems, while others maintain the use of traditional paper ballots or a combination of both to accommodate different preferences and ensure the security of the voting process.

The history of the traditional paper voting method reflects a continuous effort to balance the principles of transparency, privacy, and accuracy in democratic elections.

Throughout its history, the traditional paper voting method has remained a symbol of democratic participation, emphasizing the importance of individual choice and the integrity of the electoral process

Electronic voting, or e-voting for short, involves the use of electronic devices like touchscreens and other forms of digital interfaces to enable voters to cast their ballots. Votes are kept and tallied electronically. E-voting speeds up the counting process, and gives reliable results sooner. But worries about safety, openness and technical problems have been expressed.

Method: Electronic devices (voting machines or touchscreens) are used to vote.

Counting: Electronic votes are recorded, and in many cases tallied automatically.

Advantages: Faster results, fewer errors of counting and accessibility for the handicapped.

1.3 Evolving Democracy: A Concise History of the Electronic Voting

1. Early Attempts (1960s-1970s): in the 1960s and 70s, electronic voting started to take shape. Later attempts were to employ computers in vote counting, but the voting process remained largely manual.

2. Introduction of Direct Recording Electronic (DRE) Machines (1970s-1980s): the true turning point toward E-voting was the appearance of Direct Recording Electronic (DRE) voting machines. These began to appear at the end of the 1970's and really took off early in this decade. Voters could choose using a variety of approaches including touchscreens or buttons. Electronic voting means that paper ballots were not used in some cases.

3. Widespread Adoption (1990s-Present): during the 1990s and early part of this century, a number of countries or jurisdictions introduced E-voting systems on a larger scale. The systems usually had more advanced touchscreens, better user interfaces and higher levels of security. Many systems also included accessibility features to cater for voters with disabilities.

4. Internet Voting (Experimental, 2000s-Present): about the same time, experimental work was also carried out to explore internet voting so that voters could cast their votes online. Internet voting was meant to improve accessibility and convenience. But worries about security, including the possibility that links could be hacked or manipulated, have curbed its widespread use.

It should be noted that electronic voting has undergone incremental advancements and its progress remains ongoing. Numerous countries and regions have implemented diverse approaches to cater for their unique requirements, regulations or technological abilities. The evolution of E-voting is indicative of an unceasing endeavor to increase the effectiveness, convenience and safety of the electoral system.

1.4 Electronic Voting Method and Semi-Electronic Voting Method

Semi-electronic voting systems combine elements of both paper and electronic methods. For example, a system might involve voters marking their choices on a paper ballot, which is then scanned or processed electronically. This hybrid approach aims to leverage the benefits of both traditional and electronic methods. It provides a physical record for verification while utilizing electronic tools for efficiency.

Method: Combines elements of both traditional and electronic methods. For example, voters might use an electronic device to make selections, but a paper record is generated for verification or backup.

Counting: Can involve both electronic and manual counting, depending on the system.

Advantages: A compromise between the familiarity of paper voting and the potential efficiency of electronic systems. It may address concerns about electronic voting security by providing a paper trail for auditing.

Revised: The concept of Semi-Electronic voting may not be widely recognized, but it is believed to have originated as a response to the challenges and concerns facing fully electronic or paper-based methods. This hybrid approach incorporates both traditional paper ballots and technological elements for greater efficiency while maintaining transparency.

The evolution of Semi-Electronic systems continues through ongoing efforts to address limitations associated with each method. Such innovations include improved interfaces for voters, advancements in scanning technology, and enhanced security measures aimed at ensuring election integrity.

As technology advances further over time, we can expect that these hybridized approaches will grow even more sophisticated; striking a balance between speediness thanks precisely advancing technologies electrical solutions provide with full national confidence ensured by strengthened manual procedures including physical documentation maintained via printed materials such as traditional ballot papers extracted during vote counting process; enhancing overall system reliability without sacrificing verifiability or fairness in elections administration practices..

While differences across regions are likely given variations regarding preferred degree(s)of integration involving diverse combinations comprising differing ratios depending on electoral needs specific cases call (for practical application); collectively they reflect an overarching trend toward adaptive strategies harnessing new tech-centered improvements within electoral contexts yet remain consistent among all automation-inclusive frameworks conducive increasing levels trustworthiness authentic democratic values upheld meticulously—thereby fostering lasting public confidence holding strong nationwide support structures protecting citizen rights essential pillars safeguarding democracy cherished universally world-over.

2 Electronic Voting Method and Semi-Electronic Voting Method

The Semi-Electronic Voting Method was purportedly employed by the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2018. However, upon closer scrutiny of the process, certain crucial considerations surfaced before endorsing this method.

The observation reveals that the initial implementation of the Semi-Electronic Voting Method cannot genuinely be classified as a semi-electronic voting process. The votes collected electronically were treated independently, devoid of any cross-referencing with the paper results. Notably, there was a lack of comparison between the paper and electronic outcomes, rendering the inaugural experience more akin to a pure Electronic Voting process.

2.1 Unlocking the Potential: A Detailed Exploration of the Advantages of Electronic Voting

By adopting electronic voting, a contemporary method of conducting elections, we can avail numerous advantages that enhance the effectiveness, precision and availability in the democratic practice.

1. Speed and Efficiency:

a. Real-time Results: Electronic voting systems enable the swift counting and reporting of results, providing timely and accurate outcomes.

b. Streamlined Processes: Automation reduces the time traditionally spent on manual tasks, streamlining the entire voting procedure.

2. Accuracy and Reduced Errors:

a. Minimized Human Error: Electronic systems diminish the risk of human error in counting and recording votes, promoting more reliable election results.

b. Instant Validation: Immediate feedback allows voters to correct mistakes on the spot, ensuring the accuracy of their choices.

3. Accessibility and Inclusivity:

a. Assistive Technologies: Electronic voting machines have the ability to add features like audio prompts and tactile interfaces, improving accessibility for people with disabilities.

b. Language Options: Multi-lingual interfaces accommodate various linguistic populations, adding inclusiveness into the voting process.

4. Cost Savings and Environmental Impact:

a. Reduced Printing Costs: With electronic voting the use of paper ballots is slashed, providing savings in printing costs, distribution and storage.

b. Environmental Sustainability: Digitalizing voting is environmentally friendly It reduces the environmental impact of traditional paper-based ballots.

5. Enhanced Security Measures:

a. Encryption and Authentication: With the use of electronic voting systems, robust encryption and authentication protocols can be implemented to ensure that electoral data is both integral and secret.

b. Audit Trails: Digital records provide for comprehensive audit trails. Both pre- and post-election scrutiny is thorough, vouchsafing the transparency of voting procedures.

6. Flexibility and Convenience:

a. Multiple Voting Channels: Electronic voting allows for various channels, including in-person touchscreen machines and remote online voting, offering flexibility to voters.

b. Convenient Remote Options: Remote electronic voting options accommodate the needs of geographically dispersed or absentee voters.

In summary, the adoption of electronic voting methods holds the promise of revolutionizing the democratic process by providing a more efficient, accurate, and inclusive voting experience.

There are many advantages enumerated that really set us ready to go for this method?

2.2 A Comprehensive Analysis of Electronic Voting Systems' Pitfalls in Democratic Processes

1. Security Concerns:

a. Vulnerability to Hacking: But in any case, since some electronic voting systems are vulnerable to cyber-attacks, one cannot trust the result of an election.

b. Data Breaches: The electronic storage and transmission of voter data is vulnerable to unauthorized access or even stolen.

2. Lack of Voter Confidence:

a. Trust Issues: Doubts about the security and stability of electronic systems could undermine public confidence in voting.

b. Perceived Complexity: Electronic voting systems are a little too complicated or unfamiliar for some voters, and induce skepticism and hesitancy.

3. Technical Failures:

a. System Glitches: Technical malfunctions can occur with electronic voting machines, causing interruptions in the actual act of casting ballots.

b. Power Outages: Relying on electricity is risky. Power outages could cut off the functioning of electronic voting systems.

4. Limited Accessibility:

a. Digital Divide: Given different levels of access to technology, not all citizens may have equal opportunity in the voting procedure.

b. Disability Challenges: Even with attempts to make electronic systems usable, there are still some disabled people who face obstacles.

5. Cost Implications:

a. Initial Investment: Overcoming the upfront costs of buying and installing technology for electronic voting takes time.

b. Maintenance Expenses: There are many long-term financial commitments resulting from continuing maintenance and updates.

6. Complexity in Auditing:

a. Challenges in Verification: Electronic voting can make the auditing process more complicated than counting paper ballots, making it harder to guarantee a transparent election.

b. Difficulty in Recounts: Electronic recounts, while perhaps lacking the simplicity of manual counts may also make verification more difficult.

7. Resistance to Change:

a. Cultural and Societal Resistance: There may be opposition among those who cling to tradition, however, highlighting the danger of losing physical