Law Summary
Introduction
Presidential Decree No. 1660, issued on January 3, 1980, establishes penalties for violations related to the appointment of watchers in electoral processes, specifically addressing the appointment of unqualified individuals as watchers.
Violation of Section 31
Legal Principle: The decree criminalizes the appointment of watchers who are not registered voters in the city or municipality where they serve, as well as those with questionable reputations, including ex-convicts or individuals convicted of election-related offenses.
Key Definitions:
- Watcher: An individual appointed by a political party or candidate to observe the election process.
- Registered Voter: A person who is duly registered to vote in the respective city or municipality.
Important Requirements:
- Watchers must be registered voters of the locality.
- Political parties or candidates must ensure the integrity of their appointed watchers.
Cross-References: This decree refers to Section 31 and Section 179 of the 1978 Election Code, highlighting that the existing laws did not impose penalties for such violations previously.
Penalty for Violation
Legal Principle: Individuals found guilty of appointing unqualified watchers are subject to penalties equivalent to those outlined in Section 181 of the 1978 Election Code.
Penalties:
- The decree does not specify the nature of penalties under Section 181, but establishes that violators face the same consequences as those for other election offenses.
Effectivity
Legal Principle: The decree takes effect immediately upon its signing.
Important Details:
- Effective Date: January 3, 1980, the date of signing.
Key Takeaways
- Presidential Decree No. 1660 addresses and penalizes the improper appointment of election watchers.
- The decree ensures that only registered voters from the respective locality can serve as watchers, thereby enhancing the integrity of the electoral process.
- Violations of this decree are punishable under the same framework as other election offenses, reinforcing the seriousness of maintaining election integrity.
- The decree is effective immediately, emphasizing the urgency of compliance by political parties and candidates.