How to decline your ballot in Manitoba provincial elections

Voters are able to decline their ballot in Manitoba provincial elections.

Write-in ballot voting procedure

STEP 4: Voter marks ballot

The voter must take the ballot directly to the voting compartment and, without delay, mark the ballot

(b) by writing “declined” on the front of the ballot.

STEP 5: Voter returns ballot

The voter must fold the ballot as instructed and immediately return it to the voting officer.

Section 139 of The Elections Act

This is like provincial elections in Ontario, Saskatchewan and Alberta, where voters have the option to decline their ballot by handing it back to the election official and stating “I decline the ballot.”. This option is not available in Canada’s federal elections.

Our Action Playbook has many ways to raise your concerns and impact the political decision-making processes.

Why decline your ballot?

Declined ballots are counted, unlike staying home and not voting, spoiling your ballot, or submitting a blank ballot which do not count.

A voter might choose to decline their ballot when they feel that none of the options available on the ballot represent their views or if they disagree with the candidates or process presented. It is a way for engaged citizens who are willing, able and ready to vote to show their dissatisfaction with the choices available to them. ie. “I care enough to take the time to vote, but reject the options presented to me, please provide alternatives.”