{UAH} Fwd: Board of Directors' Response to Electoral Commission

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Ssebunya Kasule <ugachicago.bodchair@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, Oct 5, 2013 at 2:58 AM
Subject: Board of Directors' Response to Electoral Commission
To:

Dear UCiGC Members:

We, the Board of Directors (Board), are writing to respond to the Electoral Commission's (EC) request to interpret UCiGC's constitutional provisions concerning who is eligible to compete for positions on the Executive Board.

We will start by saying that we are happy to see that the constitution has started a spirited conversation in the Community.  While this may seem to have created confusion and divisions within the Community, we believe it is a good thing that will pay off in the long run.  We hope members will continue, even after the elections, to interact mindful of our communal obligations as stipulated by the constitution.

Based on the fact that our constitution is three years old, and members are just starting to familiarize themselves with it, we have decided to capitalize on this learning opportunity and give everybody who is paid-up a chance to either vote or compete for positions on the executive board, as long as they have not held the same position for two years.  In addition to strengthening the Community, we trust this chance will give members an opportunity to appreciate the constitution, enhance civil responsibility and encourage participation for our advancement.

We also want to inform you that we have reviewed the constitution and we understand the need to make amendments to some of the provisions, particularly those that have resulted in confusion during this time of elections.  We acknowledge these weaknesses, and will assist the Community in constructing a more perfect constitution and stronger organization.

It is with that in mind that:

1. The Board is recommending to the EC that elections proceed as scheduled, on October 12, 2013.
2. The Board recommends that all nominated and fully paid-up members be allowed to compete for positions on the executive board.
3. The Board recommends a review of the UCiGC constitution in the future.
4. The Board has established an official email to open communication channels with the Community.

Finally, on behalf of the Community and the Executive Board, the Board of Directors would like to thank members of the Electoral Commission for the numerous hours and dedication they have committed to organizing this election.  And, good luck to all the candidates.

Sincerely,

Members of UCiGC Board of Directors.

--

Abbey Kibirige  Semuwemba

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'"The three separate branches of government were developed as a check and balance for one another. It is within the court's duty to ensure that power is never condense[d] into a single branch of government." - Judge Anna Diggs Taylor