With the registration
campaign completed, STAE's work now focuses on establishing a
computerized registered voter list. Each form is entered once
and then rechecked by a different person. STAE staff members analyze
and correct all duplicates, incomplete forms, and invalid information
to ensure the accuracy of the list and to avoid registering those
who are not eligible to vote, such as foreigners and underage
citizens. This process is aimed at boosting the confidence of
Timor-Leste's voters that the list is complete and correct and
the process is transparent. By computerizing the database, STAE
will be better able to update the list for future elections and
evaluate the information it contains.
STAE's agreement with the National University of Timor Lorosa'e
provides the students from different faculties with the opportunity
of using the 74-workstation network and gaining experience in
database entry. "It is good to have the students working
on data entry because they are able to cross check the data and
understand the importance of accuracy," explained Paulo Siqueria,
the information technology advisor from the International Foundation
for Election Systems.
USAID supports the establishment of STAE's registered voter list
through a $98,500 grant for networking equipment and cabling.
With other donors, including UNDP, USAID helps STAE establish
Timor-Leste's new electoral process from the local to the national
level. This expands individuals' and communities' political participation
and strengthens the country's democratic institutions.
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