An update on the current status of the Students' Union's elections.
On the 5th of March, the University of Bradford directed the Students' Union to pause this year's elections following complaints about the integrity of the election process. Peter Robertson at the National Union of Students, who provides independent oversight of our elections as Returning Officer, was consulted and supports this decision.
Since then, the University has begun the process to appoint an independent external investigator to look into the concerns that were raised. The investigation is now underway. We're not able to share details while it's ongoing, but we want to assure you that the process is being taken seriously and is being handled fairly and thoroughly.
We know you want elections to happen, and so do we. Our priority is making sure that when they do, the process is fair and the results are genuine.
Why were the elections paused?
Complaints were received about the integrity of the election process, supported by evidence. The University directed the pause under its responsibilities in the 1994 Education Act, and the Returning Officer at the National Union of Students supported the decision. The pause is there to make sure any concerns are properly investigated before elections go ahead.
Why can't you tell us what the complaints are about?
Sharing details while the investigation is ongoing could compromise the process and wouldn't be fair to the people involved. We'll share what we can as soon as we're able to.
When will elections happen?
There is currently no timeframe for how long the investigation will take, and we won't know what the next steps for elections look like until it is finished and the position is clearer. We'll update you as soon as we have more information.
Is the pause permanent?
The pause is a temporary measure while the investigation takes place. Elections will happen, but they need to happen in a way that's fair and that students can trust, though we can’t say at this stage when elections will be held. We understand that for some students, particularly those finishing their studies this year, a longer pause has a real impact and we don’t take that lightly. We’ll share updates as soon as the position is clear.
How are students being represented in the meantime?
Your current elected officers remain in post and continue to represent you. Your School and Course Representatives are also still in place and working on your behalf. The Students' Union continues to operate as normal in every other respect.
Can I still stand as a candidate?
When elections are rescheduled, full details will be published including who is eligible to stand, key dates, and how to nominate yourself. We'll make sure there's plenty of notice so that anyone who wants to get involved has the chance to.
What if I have information about the concerns that were raised?
If you have information that could help the University or the Students' Union understand what has taken place, you can report anonymously or with your details through Report and Support. You won't face any negative consequences for raising a concern in good faith.
If you have any other questions, please contact the Students' Union at ubuelections@bradford.ac.uk.
Andy Morwood,
Deputy Returning Officer and Interim CEO