Election observers raise concerns over secret ballot breaches at Gorton and Denton byelection

Election observers raise concerns over secret ballot breaches at Gorton and Denton byelection

Election observers reported 32 suspected cases of collusion at the Gorton and Denton by-elections, the highest number seen in Democracy Volunteers’ decade-long monitoring. They raised concerns about breaches of secret ballot integrity and potential inappropriate influence near polling sites.

Observers described instances of coordinated campaigning and pressure tactics aimed at influencing how people voted, suggesting heightened risk of compromised voter anonymity. The group called for further investigation and stronger safeguards to protect the secrecy of ballots in future elections.