[Editorial] By-elections in limbo

Election officials have found it difficult to raise the low voter turnout in previous by-elections. It has been rare for the figure to exceed 40 percent, going down near 10 percent in some polls.

But the upcoming by-elections are certain to have a record high turnout ― probably over 70 percent. Why? They are scheduled to be held on the same day as voters go to polls to elect the nation’s next president.

But what is also certain is that most voters would only realize that they are meant to vote in by-elections after arriving at the polling station Wednesday.

Together with the presidential vote, reelections or by-elections are to be held in 26 constituencies across the country to elect an education superintendent, a governor, three local administration heads and 21 provincial councilors. Aside from the contest to become Seoul education chief, voters appear oblivious to the other elections.

Voter interest in the election of Seoul education head is also tepid. In a recent survey of Seoul citizens on their favorable candidate, about 60 percent refused to give an answer or said they had no information about the candidates.

It is worrisome that most voters take little interest in elections to select administrators or councilors in their districts. Beyond voters’ watchful eyes, candidates are preoccupied with partisan electioneering and slandering other contenders.

Voters’ low interest also means that candidates are not properly scrutinized when they are elected. A growing number of local administrators and councilors have been implicated in bribery and other corruption. According to figures from the Ministry of Public Administration and Security, the number of local administration heads indicted on corruption charges increased from 23 during 1995-98 to 119 in the four years until 2010. Their proportions also rose from 9 percent to 48.4 percent.

Voters are urged to take more interest in local polls and by-elections to choose the best possible candidates. Before going to polls Wednesday, voters in districts that hold by-elections need to take some time out to look over the lists of pledges and policies proposed by each candidate.

Election officials also should work out various ways, including using broadcast networks, to provide constituents with more information about contestants in local elections.