No. I would never make it mandatory as a TB member. If that's what IB wants, I would not oppose it, as no one has given me a good reason why they don't want an "I voted" badge next to their name (or not, if they didn't vote). There's no shame either way. I simply find it to be a nice reminder to others that there's an election happening. We're not making global government policy here. Vote if you want. Don't vote if you want. Most do not.

Based on what I've read, IB has already provided a way to opt out, so I think you have what you need. I think complaining about a lack of "privacy" about whether one voted or not for a bunch of volunteers to represent membership on an internet board is much ado about nothing. For instance, I'm not terribly concerned that I am not part of the "Secret Santa" program and don't have a badge for that. But it's a nice reminder that the program exists and, if it makes someone inquire about the icon and learn something about the exchange, great. I do not share your view that being "outed" as a non-voter here is anything to be concerned about. I have heard two people voice the idea that they would rather not vote than have the badge associated with his/her name. That is not a compelling argument.