Understanding Kingston Elections process

What are the KSU Elections? 

KSU elections are a democratic process where students elect student leaders to represent their needs. 

This process is designed to be: free and fair, transparent, and regulated by formal election rules.

Who oversees the Elections? 

Elections are run by KSU staff and overseen by a Returning Officer (RO). Our RO is the NUS. The RO is responsible for: 

• Ensuring that the elections are free, fair and open to everyone that is eligible. 

• Investigating complains. 

• Certifying the results. 

DRO: Deputy Returning Officer  

Our DRO is KSU’s Head of Membership Services: Laura Black. 

The DRO: 

• Supports the Returning Officer in delivering the election 

• Investigates complaints and rule breaches 

• Can issue sanctions where regulations are violated 

ADRO: Assistant Deputy Returning Officer 

Our ADRO is KSU’s Student Voice and Insight Manager: Sam Dangerfield. 

The ADRO: 

• Assists with the administrative and procedural aspects of elections. 

• Helps monitor campaigning conduct. 

• Supports complaint handling processes. 

• Provides logistical coordination during voting and results. 

Where are we in the Elections process now? 

We are currently in the nominations process. 

Nominations opened on the 2nd of February and will close at 11:59PM on Sunday 1st March.   

What happens after nominations close? 

KSU will carry out eligibility checks on all candidates. Soon after, candidates will be expected to attend a candidate briefing and training to start campaigning. 

On the 9th March, we will announce all candidacies. Campaigning will then begin, which will include a Candidate Question Time.  

During this phase: 

• Candidates promote their manifestos. 

• Campaigning may occur online and on campus. 

• Strict spending caps apply. 

• Negative campaigning or harassment is prohibited. 

How does voting work? 

Voting is typically conducted online through a secure platform on the KSU website, accessible via university login credentials.  

The voting system is Single Transferable Vote (STV). When you vote, you will be asked to rank candidates in order of preference (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.). 

If no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes: 

• The lowest-ranked candidate is eliminated. 

• Their votes are redistributed based on second preferences. 

• The process of elimination and redistribution continues until the required number of winners are determined. 

This system ensures broader support for elected officers. Please check out the Electoral Reform Society to watch a video describing the STV process.

How long is the voting period? 

• Voting will open at 10AM on Monday 16th March.  

• Voting will close at 3PM on Wednesday 18th March.  

Please note that the voting window has been changed slightly. This decision has been made to ensure all candidates and interested students are able to attend Results Night, which was initially likely to clash with Eid.  

Results Night will now take place from 5PM on Wednesday 18th March.  

What happens if someone has a complaint? 

Students or candidates can submit complaints if they believe rules were breached. 

The process includes: 

1. Written complaint submission via a complaints form. 

1. Investigation by the DRO. 

1. Sanctions if misconduct is confirmed. 

1. Appeals can be sent and will be reviewed by the RO. 

1. RO will either approve or decline the appeal and their decision is final. 

This ensures procedural accountability. 

When do we find out who won? 

Once voting closes: 

• Votes are counted electronically. 

• Results are verified. 

• Winners are officially declared on Results Night! 

We plan on holding Results Night from 5PM on Wednesday 18th March. Please note this is subject to the Returning Officer deeming the elections are free and fair.  

How can I get involved? 

If you’re interested in nominating yourself, please follow either of the guidelines below: 

KSU President 

Student Trustee, Faculty Rep or Campus Rep 

You can also find out what each of the roles are on the ‘What’s what?’ section of the Candidate Hub. Please make sure than you are logged in to access all the material. 

If you know someone that would make an excellent representative, you can recommend them by completing this quick form! Please note that a recommendation does not constitute a nomination.