Why I am appealing

"JEC disqualifies first-year SGA presidential hopeful from race"

Last week, the GW Joint Elections Committee (JEC) made the decision to disqualify me from the Student Government Association presidential ballot. I want to take a moment to explain not just what happened, but why I am appealing.

This campaign has always been about giving GW students a real voice. That’s why I believe it’s important to be transparent about this process and what’s at stake.

What Happened

The JEC found me responsible for six election violations, five related to collecting signatures in restricted areas and one for allegedly pressuring a student to sign my petition. Under JEC rules, six points results in automatic disqualification.

These findings came after a hearing that lasted over an hour, followed by roughly five minutes of deliberation.

The case against me relied heavily on second-hand accounts and written statements from anonymous witnesses. In several instances, testimony was based on what others said happened, not what the witness directly observed. Some statements were submitted in writing, and I was not given the opportunity to question those individuals or assess their credibility.

At no point was tangible or verifiable evidence presented that demonstrated I knowingly violated election rules.

Why This Matters

This appeal is about more than my candidacy, it’s about the integrity and fairness of our student elections.

Disqualification is the most serious penalty the JEC can impose. It should require a high standard of evidence and a process that ensures fairness to all candidates. When decisions of this magnitude are based on unverified or unchallenged claims, it raises important questions about whether that standard is being met.

I respect the role of the JEC and the time its members dedicate to this process. But respect for the system also means being willing to challenge it when something doesn’t feel right.

Why I Am Appealing

I am appealing on three core grounds:

1. Insufficient Evidence

The allegations against me were not supported by direct, verifiable evidence. Much of the case relied on assumptions and second-hand reports.

2. Lack of Procedural Fairness

Key evidence came from written statements by individuals who were not present at the hearing. Without the ability to question these witnesses, I was denied a fair opportunity to respond.

3. Disproportionate Outcome

Even accepting the allegations at face value, the penalty imposed, removal from the ballot, was extreme given the nature and uncertainty of the evidence.

What Happens Next

I have formally appealed to the Student Court, which will now review the JEC’s decision. The Court will determine whether the process was fair and whether the ruling should stand.

I am committed to fully participating in that process and complying with all procedural requirements.

Moving Forward

I take these allegations seriously. I also take seriously my responsibility to stand up for a fair process not just for myself, but for every student who chooses to participate in student government.

This campaign has always been about making our student government more transparent, more accountable, and more representative. That doesn’t stop here.

I will continue fighting to stay on the ballot, and I will continue advocating for a system that treats every candidate fairly.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me and believed in this campaign.

Zain Masood

Candidate for GW SGA President