In the olden days, political seasons and Christmas season had no variance as both seasons were seen as festivities and exchange of pleasantries.
what was predominant at the time is probably selection of leaders and not election and it's very possible that people where not all that interested at politics that much to have known the benefit of having someone that's of your cartel in position of authority. Do you celebrate during an election when the person that's most likely going to win if you fold your hands is a terror? Most of the politicians that are vying for the position of leadership are individuals that are looking at thier selfish gains and that will forget those that elected them into office the moment they've successfully won the election. That's why they turn the election period into moments of war and chaos and will do all that it takes to ensure that the win in the election.
If the previledges most of these leaders are enjoying are cut shut and due process are followed during an election, then it's most likely that we might not be having cases of fighting and fear of war during election.