Foul play happens in all areas of life. To assume that the electoral system is never abused would have to be a large assumption.

I know that Australia has issues and safeguards and still has dodgy deals been done.

I'm pretty sure the UK has had a few Rotten Boroughs in years gone pass.

I remember reading here about machines punching holes in the wrong spot, disputes about the number of votes going to various candidates.

I'm sure there is some politician who has gotten to power in a modern democracy by unethical means.