1755-7585 ISSNISSN 1755-7585
Elections Special 2008
OH HELL, IT’S NOT THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN
T
he Texas and Ohio primaries are not the only ballots to watch in early March - election fever is rife in Bangor as ten students throw themselves on the mercy of their peers and submit their nominations for sabbatical office of the Students’ Union. The 7th February saw the nominations close, and the intervening weeks have involved lots of behind the scenes work putting together publicity materials and assembling campaign teams. Some candidates started the legwork in October, in anticipation of
their candidacies. The seriousness with which potential sabbatical officers take their election campaigns is as clear as ever. The final candidates’ briefing took place on 22nd February – candidates being given creative freedom to persuade students to part with their vote. “We want the elections to be a fun and enjoyable time for candidates and students alike,” says incumbent Athletic Union President Andy Redfearn. “We want candidates to be imaginative – originality doesn’t necessarily mean you’re the best for the job, but it does win you a few votes.”
One candidate, who was asked not to be named, said the elections were causing them a great deal of worry, “I’ve not slept for a week and I think my hair is starting to fall out, but nonetheless I’m very much looking forward to the elections.” There are concerns that turnout will fall below the high levels enjoyed in recent years, but students are being encouraged to engage with the candidates and turn out in force. “It’s absolutely crucial that candidates and students get the opportunity to meet with each other and that students make an
informed corporate decision about who will be leading their Students’ Union next year, ” says current President, Sam Burnett. It is with some melancholy that he will be watching these elections from the sidelines. “After six years in Bangor it’s time for me to get going, it’s really bizarre to be involved in these elections but not as a candidate. Every year I’ve been in Bangor I’ve stood in the elections! I probably shouldn’t admit to that…” Voting takes place in the first week of March, and students will be given the opportunity to quiz candidates in a series of ques-
tion times and speeches in the final week of February. All eyes in the University are on the 6th March, when the final results are announced and the Students’ Union begins to look forward to life without some longserving officers who will be leaving in July. With a new constitution having been voted through by Extraordinary General Meeting in January a smooth transition will be paramount.
Are YOU the King of the Swingers? Jungle
SIN Night
Tuesday 15th April at Academi