a non vote

[elframo]

If I dont vote in a general election and I am registered to vote does it go automatically to the party in power?

[Loosehead]

No

[elleroo]

theoretically, a non vote is a vote for the leading party, as you are not exercising your right to have your opinion...in our democracy.

i suppose thats just my way of thinking but i've always been aware that by not voting, i have absolutely no right to complain about anything that happens in government. therefore if a decision is made which affects my life i cant be annoyed etc cos i didnt use my right to have my say.

its important to have your say, democracy is a great thing but not if you dont use it to your advantage.

[bernardo]

Of course you have the right to complain - whether you vote or not.  We have freedom of speech, and freedom not to vote if we don't want to.

[Loosehead]

Not voting is not a vote for the leading party. It has been widely said by the pundits that a low turn out favours the opposition. TB's biggest enemy is voter apathy.

[londondave]

it is about time that non voters and spoiled papers were counted