Disappointment as Heriot-Watt elections fail to excite

Representation looked thin on the ground as nominations for the Heriot-Watt University Students Association (HWUSA) Executive committee were announced last week.

Disappointingly, out of seven roles on the Executive Committee, two have been left unfilled, including vice president of education and welfare (VPEW) – a sabbatical position. The important posts of president and vice president of services and communications (VPSC) are uncontested.

Despite being the only presidential candidate nominated, Simon Eltringham is not guaranteed the top job as students will also have the opportunity to vote to re-open nominations (RON).

Eltringham told The Journal: “I am extremely excited to be running for president in the elections. I am disappointed that there is not another candidate for me to run against but I am not complacent and know that I still need to work hard to win the votes of the students if I am to be hired.”

Concerns that the student population will be inclined to assume the results as a foregone conclusion and therefore less likely to vote have been expressed by candidates who are keen to stress the importance of the elections.

Michael Bottom, nominee for the role of VPSC—formerly a sabbatical role but now reduced to a part-time officer—explained: “It's still really important that students vote. VPSC has a huge influence on the services in the union and in the student shop, these affect our students, so it is important to gauge their opinions. Its vital that students know who I am and get a chance to tell me their opinions.”

Eltringham, also expressed his disappointment at the number of people standing in this election, telling The Journal: “Nominations have been disappointing overall this year and it is concerning there is no candidate for VPEW. I am confident that someone with the ideas, passion and commitment will come forward to make this position a success.”

This year for the first time voting will be carried out online using Vision, the online learning space used by students. It is hoped that this new initiative will increase voting numbers.

The elections are due to take place on 16 February 2009.