“Conducting and counting the votes in the local election is an enormously labor-intensive process due to the options for cumulative and split voting, but it is a celebration of democracy. Many thanks to everyone who took part. A democracy thrives on such active participation by its citizens in political life,” says Mende.

“Elections are the foundation of our democracy. That is why, with an eye toward future elections, we are grateful for the support and for all the people who are willing to get involved and actively help strengthen democracy in Wiesbaden and keep it alive,” says Koohestanian.

Conducting an election is only possible with a large number of volunteers. In Wiesbaden, approximately 2,500 volunteers are needed. Many people volunteer for this, and some have been doing so for many years. On Election Sunday, March 15, the so-called preliminary results of the city council and local advisory board elections were determined starting at 6 p.m. This involved counting all ballots marked exclusively with a cross on the party list. The tallying of cumulative and split-vote ballots began on Monday, March 16. Around 800 city employees were on duty for this task. 

Those interested in serving as election workers to support democracy can find all relevant information at wiesbaden.de/rathaus/stadtpolitik/wahlhelfer-innen (opens in a new tab).