Intimidatory practices In past elections there have been repeated allegations of political intimidation. The Bill introduces new provisions specifically criminalising a range of practices, which will constitute the offence of intimidation. An intimidatory practice will also constitute an electoral malpractice. For these provisions to be effective they will need to be properly enforced by the law enforcement agencies. Where complaints of political intimidation are made to the Electoral Commission, the Commission should be given powers to direct the Commissioner-General of Police to ensure that an urgent and proper investigation is conducted into the complaints. Misuse of state funds for electioneering The Amendment Bill does not address this problem, and this is a serious defect since it allows the ruling party, by default, to exploit an unfair advantage. 3