Wikinews:Arbitration Committee/Elections July 2008/F.A.Q.

The following are Frequently Asked Questions about the elections in July 2008 for the Wikinews Arbitration Committee.

Who can nominate?
Anybody can be nominated by any eligible voter.

How many users can I vote for?
The election will be conducted using approval voting, so you may vote for any number of candidates one time.

Who can be nominated for a position?
Anyone can be nominated, however it is highly unlikely to see a new user on the ballot.

Who can vote?
Any user who meets the requirements listed on the election page may vote.

Is this a secret ballot?
No. Unlike the Wikimedia Board Election, votes may be seen by any user.

Someone voted who isn't allowed to. What should I do?
Please do not remove the vote unless you are a member of the Election Committee. The committee will be regularly checking the voting page for any fradulent votes. If you notice a fradulent vote, make a note on the talk page of the election.

What is the Arbitration Committee?
The Arbitration Committee (ArbCom for short) is a last resort for solving disputes between users on Wikinews, in extreme cases. It does not create policy, nor does it secretly rule Wikinews. The members act as judges in cases brought to the Committee. See WN:ARBCOM for more information.

Which seats are up for election?
Due to a term extension at the end of the election last year, all 6 seats are up for election.

Do I need to be over 18, an admin, or disclose my true identity to run?
No. However, some arbitrators receive checkuser and oversight privileges to help them do work for the Committee (but it is optional). To receive those privileges you need to be over 18, and (privately) identify yourself to the Wikimedia Foundation, per a resolution of the Wikimedia Foundation.

What happens after the election?
The three election coordinators Thunderhead, Steven Fruitsmaak, and Mike Halterman will meet, and decide on the winners, based loosely on the votes.