PRINCIPLE 2: THOROUGH INVESTIGATION Principle: The second principle underpinning this Guidebook is that investigations into allegations of wrongdoing in the electoral process should be conducted thoroughly. The principle of thorough investigation is important for ensuring that any action taken in response to a dispute or allegation is based on sound evidence. Practice: This section outlines the guidelines and principles that investigators can use to conduct thorough investigations, including collecting evidence, conducting interviews, analyzing evidence and presenting findings, and keeping accurate records. A thorough investigation that produces sound evidence requires that: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Acceptable types of evidence are pre-determined; Evidence is substantiated and corroborated; Different sources of evidence are sought; The standard of evidence to be used is clear; Search and seizure processes are followed; Interviews are planned, conducted, and documented properly; Evidence is analyzed and presented appropriately; and Adequate document retention and data protection strategies are in place. Chapter topics: This chapter covers the following topics: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Evidence; Conducting interviews; Analyzing evidence and presenting findings; Findings, referrals, and notifications; and Accurate record-keeping and document retention. 55