Cuban Elections

As of today, there are only four (4) news stories about the upcoming municipal elections in Cuba (from Google News):

• Head of Cuban Parliament Calls Election Process a Unique Privilege
• Cubans Will Nominate Thursday Candidates for Municipal Assemblies
• Cuban Massive Turnout Expected for April Vote
• Participatory Democracy in Cuba

I suppose you would not find any mention in the Liberal Media or otherwise about democracy in Cuba. The corporate media has to maintain the pretense about the Cuban dictatorship.

What I find intriguing about the Cuban elections are:

• The high percentage of independents (non-Communists) that are elected. I think the percentage is greater than 50%.
• Electoral campaigning is prohibited. Candidates have be selected on their achievements and ability to do the job. Biographies about the candidates are posted in prominent places so the electors can view them.
• The electors first choose the list of candidates to stand at the election. No more branch stacking or back room deals.
• Voters are 16 or older. Voter registration is automatic once you turn 16.
• Most politicians are not paid. Those employed full time by the municipality are paid their old wages.

Most intriguing of all is this, at Participatory Democracy in Cuba

Every six months, all representatives, from the municipal president down, must account for their work to the electorate, who can revoke their mandate at anytime.

I wonder how many Australian politicians can withstand such scrunity?