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The nomination period has opened ahead of Alderney's next by-election, with hopes that enough candidates will be proposed to see an election held.
There is one vacant seat in the States Assembly.
Anyone who wishes to be considered for election must be nominated before 16:00 on Friday 3 February.
A spokesperson said: "the States has high hopes that this will be a contested election".
Recent elections in Alderney have not been contested. Last year's Ordinary Election saw four candidates nominated for five available seats. All were therefore filled uncontested.
States of Alderney, government in January:
— Alex Snowdon (@AlexSnowdon5) November 15, 2022
50%- unelected (Majority)
40%- elected
10% missing
Really concerned for democracy on Alderney, this has never happened before.Even if seats are uncontested, introducing a minimum vote threshold of 250 or 300 votes should be required https://t.co/4VYgT5Y3Pq
“We are hoping that a number of candidates will come forward to make this a properly contested election,” said Returning Officer Liz Maurice. “We have a full agenda of business to take Alderney forward, and I would encourage those with a contribution to make to step up in these challenging times.”
Current States Members, including Alderney Representative in the States of Guernsey, Alex Snowdon have also voiced their concern about the democratic process not working properly due to a lack of candidates.
AN URGENT review of Alderney’s election process has been called for by one of its States members.
— Alex Snowdon (@AlexSnowdon5) November 15, 2022
Mr Snowdon suggested that elections should go ahead, even if seats are uncontested, introducing a minimum vote threshold of 250 or 300 votes. @GuernseyPresshttps://t.co/ZtL0r9HR0m
Islanders thinking about standing can attend a special drop-in session to discuss the role on Monday 30 January between 11:30 and 13:30 in the Members Room at the Island Hall in Royal Connaught Square. This will be hosted by Nigel Vooght, Chairman of the Policy & Finance Committee, who will be joined by other Members to explain how the committee system works and how responsibilities are shared.
A booklet entitled ‘How Government Works’ is available to potential candidates at the Island Hall’s General Office and potential candidates are also encouraged to talk to present States Members regarding the role they would be taking on.
The by-election takes place on Saturday 18 February. The Polling Station is in the Island Hall and will be open for voting between 09:30 and 18:30.
Elections take place every two years for half of the Assembly with successful candidates serving for four years.
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