The Chief Electoral Officer, Richard D. Balasko, administers provincial elections to ensure they are fair and free of political influence as set out in The Elections Act and The Elections Finances Act. The CEO reports to the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, and the CEO cannot be a member of political party or vote in an election.
The Commissioner of Elections, Michael T. Green, is appointed by the Chief Electoral Officer in consultation with all political parties, and is responsible for prosecuting violations of election law.
A report on the conduct of each election and annual reports about Elections Manitoba’s activities are made to the Legislative Assembly and may include recommendations for legislative changes.
CEO Responsibilities
The office of the Chief Electoral Officer (Elections Manitoba) must always be ready to conduct elections, by-elections, and referenda. Elections Manitoba enables all qualified Manitobans to vote in provincial elections by:
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ensuring fairness, impartiality and compliance with election law
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promoting voting opportunities to all voters
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educating new voters about the electoral process
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helping political parties, candidates, official agents and chief financial officers comply with election legislation
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communicating with election officials, political parties, constituency associations, candidates, official agents and chief financial officers
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publishing election results in the Statement of Votes
Some of these activities continue between general elections.
Legislation requires a referendum for provincial tax changes, and before the privatization of Manitoba Hydro or Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation. Such referendums would be conducted by the Chief Electoral Officer.