Augusto C. Lagman, former chairman of the National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL), has expressed his view that the act of opening ballot boxes is not a necessary step in investigating alleged irregularities during the 2022 national election. Lagman recently filed a petition against Smartmatic, the provider of automated election systems.
According to Lagman, conducting a thorough investigation into possible electoral discrepancies can be achieved without resorting to the time-consuming task of opening each and every ballot box. He argues that alternative methods and avenues should be explored to uncover any potential anomalies that may have occurred during the electoral process.
Lagman’s stance challenges the conventional approach of physically examining the contents of ballot boxes, which has been traditionally perceived as an essential element of post-election analysis. By raising this viewpoint, he aims to stimulate a broader conversation on the efficacy and efficiency of current investigative practices, particularly in cases involving automated election systems.
The former NAMFREL chairman suggests that technology-driven investigative techniques, such as data analysis and digital forensics, should be prioritized over manual inspection of physical ballots. He believes that these advanced methodologies can provide valuable insights into any irregularities or inconsistencies within the electoral system, without the need for extensive physical manipulation of ballot materials.
Lagman’s petition against Smartmatic reflects the concerns shared by some individuals and organizations regarding the performance and integrity of automated election systems. The allegations of irregularities underscore the need for comprehensive scrutiny and evaluation of the technology, processes, and safeguards employed during elections.
By challenging the necessity of opening ballot boxes, Lagman seeks to encourage a more nuanced and sophisticated approach to investigating election-related issues. His proposal aligns with the growing trend towards embracing digital solutions and leveraging data analytics to enhance transparency and accuracy in democratic processes.
As the debate surrounding the investigation of alleged irregularities in the 2022 national election continues, Lagman’s perspective highlights the importance of exploring alternative avenues for scrutinizing electoral processes. In an era where technology plays a significant role in elections, it is critical to harness its potential to ensure the integrity and credibility of democratic exercises.
Ultimately, Lagman’s petition against Smartmatic serves as a catalyst for reevaluating current investigative practices and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and improvement in election monitoring. By initiating this discourse, he contributes to the ongoing efforts to enhance the fairness and reliability of electoral systems, ultimately strengthening democracy as a whole.
