While some voting stations ran out of ballots, social media users also posted numerous videos showing alleged irregularities including vote buying. Colombia’s legislative elections and interparty primaries have created a stir in the South American nation, after major irregularities were reported by NGOs, candidates and social media users. The Electoral Observer Mission (OEM) – which had warned of the risk of fraud in hundreds of municipalities in the run-up to the elections –reported numerous inconsistencies as videos surfaced on social media appearing to show vote-buying and other fraudulent activities. “Unauthorized information desks” had been set up in front of polling stations in various towns “with lists of voters and transportation ready to receive them,” the OEM said.
The OEM also highlighted the lack of accreditation “generating protests”: at least 141 towns registered more voters than inhabitants, especially in the provinces of Antioquia, Boyaca and Santander. In addition, 30 percent of voters surveyed by the mission said they could not cast their ballots in secret.
The National Civil Registry said ballots had run out in Medellin, Cucuta and Manizales, but voters could use photocopies: “An agreement was reached with the political parties and movements, due to the budget restriction and they authorized the continuation of the procedure with photocopies,” said Juan Carlos Galindo.
Full Article: Irregularities, Fraud Allegations Mar Colombian Elections | News | teleSUR English.