Part 7/9:
Elections: A Farcical Exercise in Democracy
North Korea conducts elections for the SPA every five years, presenting yet another layer of mock democracy. Voters face a singular candidate on their ballots—chosen exclusively by the Democratic Front for the Reunification of Korea—ensuring that opposition is nonexistent. The act of voting against the solitary candidate can result in dire consequences, underscoring the lack of genuine electoral freedom.
Citizens can express dissent by crossing out the candidate's name in red ink, but this act of defiance is deeply perilous. Historical ramifications indicate that any overt opposition can lead to severe repercussions, including job termination and loss of housing since residences are often tied to employment.