North Koreans Go to the Polls in Local Elections
Opposing Votes Reported for the First Time Since 1956
Voter Turnout Recorded at Almost 100 Percent
SEOUL, South Korea (Reuters) - North Korea on Tuesday made a rare mention of dissenting votes in recent elections, although analysts dismissed it as an attempt to portray an image of a normal society.
The state media reported that North Koreans voted in local elections on Sunday, with opposing votes reported for the first time since 1956. Approval rates stayed below 100 percent in two local elections that year.
Local elections have been held in North Korea since 1999. The people elect representatives to city, county, and provincial people's assemblies every four years. The number of representatives is determined by the population.
North Koreans had no option but to vote in the elections held in the East Asian dictatorship on Sunday. While the results were preordained, the process serves as an important ritual.
Analysts believe the mention of dissenting votes is an attempt by North Korea to create the illusion of a democratic society. In reality, the country is a closed dictatorship with no freedom of speech or assembly.
The voter turnout for the local elections was recorded at almost 100 percent, according to state media. This is a common occurrence in North Korea, where citizens are pressured to participate in elections and other government-organized events.
Comments