PLRA Electoral Tribunal Defends Voting Machines Amidst Internal Criticism

Gustavo Bernal, president of the Independent Electoral Tribunal (TEI) of the Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA), has defended the party's use of electronic voting machines for its upcoming municipal primaries. He asserted that the system provides "sufficient guarantees" for candidates, representatives, and party members, addressing criticisms from within the party.

Internal factions have raised concerns, requesting more time to verify the functionality of the voting equipment and electoral materials. However, Bernal stated that the Tribunal allowed technical representatives from different movements to participate in verification sessions. According to Bernal, 19 representatives were involved in checks conducted over two days, and no irregularities were found during these processes. He added that IT specialists and analysts from the voting system company were available to answer technical questions.

Bernal acknowledged that some factions wished to extend the review period, but the Tribunal rejected this request. He explained that the electoral schedule is already 98% complete, making it impossible to revisit administrative and logistical stages. "There are legal deadlines in both the Electoral Code and the electoral schedule, and these deadlines are peremptory and non-extendable," Bernal emphasized.

He further noted that electoral materials have already begun distribution nationally and internationally, while accreditations and final procedures are underway. Bernal also pointed out that some current critics of the voting machine system were themselves elected using the same technology in the past. The TEI's defense comes as the party prepares for its internal elections.