On each occasion that debates are to be staged, a budget is prepared and the Commission seeks sponsorship to defray the costs of the debates. The number of debates is determined by the level of sponsorship funds raised.
Which political parties can participate in the debates?
The objective is to stage debates in advance of national elections, providing the Commission is able to raise enough sponsorship funds
Did the political parties influence the decisions of the JDC?
No. The political parties are advised of the plans and are permitted to share any specific concerns that they may have. The concerns are addressed by the Commission through research and thorough investigation. The political parties do not have veto power over any decision of the Commission.
How were the Commission for Presidential Debates and National Democratic Institute involved in the process?
The representatives offered technical advice for the 2002 debates and again offered their service for 2007. The Commission welcomed their assistance given their wealth of international experience in these matters.
This year’s debates cost roughly J$11.0m. This figure is net of discounts and allowance received from various civic minded organizations
How were the moderators and questioners chosen?
The moderators and questioners were chosen from a pool of candidates nominated by the editors of several media houses
Why was the decision taken to make the event accessible to persons overseas?
The Commission is of the view that several person in the diaspora have an interest in critical events like the national general election and would be desirous of seeing and hearing the debates.