What must a candidate prove in order to stand for election?

A candidate must prove that they are a registered elector and have lived locally for 12 months in order to stand for election. This requirement ensures that candidates have a legitimate connection to the community they wish to represent. Being a registered elector indicates that the individual has the legal right to vote, which is a fundamental aspect of democratic participation. The stipulation of residing locally for a specified period—typically 12 months—ensures that candidates understand and are engaged with the local issues and community dynamics. This connection is vital for effective representation as it helps candidates to be more attuned to the needs and perspectives of their constituents.