Voting Procedures in the Presidential Election of Azerbaijan

In the upcoming presidential election in Azerbaijan, voters are being presented with a set of procedures aimed at ensuring fairness and accessibility to the voting process. These procedures, outlined in the Azerbaijani Constitution and Electoral Code, are designed to guarantee a transparent and democratic election. Here is a detailed look at the voting procedures that will be followed on election day.

Firstly, if a voter is unable to come to the polling station due to health reasons, they must inform the precinct election commission orally or in writing, either in person or through another person, of their desire to vote outside the polling station. This notification must be made no later than one day before the election day. This provision ensures that no eligible voter is disenfranchised due to health-related concerns.

Additionally, in communities with fewer than 50 voters, where it takes more than an hour for them to reach a polling place, the county election office has the authority to arrange transportation for these voters. This ensures that even voters in remote areas have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote without facing significant logistical challenges.

On the voting day, voters present themselves at their designated polling stations. Here, a member of the precinct election commission administers a unique identification process. The voter’s left thumb is marked using a harmless, invisible liquid sprayed onto the skin. The marking is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected using an ultraviolet lamp. This innovative method helps to maintain the integrity of the voting process, ensuring that only eligible voters are issued a ballot.

The ballot for the presidential election features comprehensive information about the candidates. In alphabetical order, the last name, first name, patronymic, date of birth, place of residence, main place of work or occupation of the presidential candidate are indicated. The ballot also specifies by whom the candidacy was nominated, providing voters with a well-rounded understanding of the candidates and their background.

During the voting process, voters are required to place a mark on the ballot paper in the square to the right of the name of the candidate for whom they wish to vote. However, it is crucial for voters to understand that if they mark more than one box or fail to mark any box, their vote will be considered invalid. This measure aims to ensure that each voter casts a clear and unambiguous vote, preventing any potential confusion or misinterpretation of their choice.

The President of Azerbaijan is elected by a majority of more than half of the votes cast. If no candidate manages to obtain such a majority in the first round of voting, a second round is held on the second Sunday following the first round. The Central Election Commission promptly announces this re-vote information within two days of making the decision. In the second round, only the two candidates who received the most votes in the first round, or the two candidates next after the top vote-earners who withdrew their candidacies, are eligible to participate. This ensures that the voting process remains competitive and focused on the candidates with the most significant support.

The candidate who receives the majority of votes in the second round of voting is declared as the elected president of Azerbaijan. The results of the election are then announced by the Constitutional Court of the republic within 14 days after the voting day. This official announcement provides a clear and authoritative confirmation of the election outcome.

In the rare event where the Constitutional Court declares the results of the presidential election as invalid, a repeat presidential election is ordered by the decision of the Central Election Commission. This emphasizes the commitment to uphold the integrity and credibility of the election process.

In the case of early presidential elections, the Central Election Commission, in conjunction with the decision to hold the elections, establishes and publishes specific deadlines for the implementation of electoral actions. However, it is important to note that the terms established cannot be reduced by more than half. This provision ensures that there is adequate time for the necessary preparations and ensures fairness in the electoral process.

Once the election results are announced, the elected President of Azerbaijan assumes office by taking an oath in the presence of judges from the Constitutional Court within three days from the day the election results are officially declared. From this day forward, the president is considered to have officially commenced their term and begins exercising their powers.

These voting procedures have been compiled based on information from open sources and are in line with the Azerbaijani Constitution and Electoral Code. These measures aim to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that the voices of the Azerbaijani people are effectively represented in the election of their president.