I think it is not easy to be merit source. Merit rules may be good. But it is not fair at all.
You may be wrong as well as correct in a way,to become a merit source takes time,as you definitely need to be someone of note in the community,and to attain such heights takes time,determination and commitment,which isn't so much to do for the community..
You wouldn't expect us electing noobs to be merit sources,as there are some reasons why we wouldn't
Firstly they could abuse such privileges,as they are new on The forum and are yet to fix their priorities,they could end up meriting their alt accounts,boosting them to higher ranks for signature campaign,hence an abuse of the system..
It might(not always the case though) be a wee bit difficult for them to decide a merit worthy post
Thus the forum sticks with high rankees,and established members,who more often than not would only contribute good to the forum
I don't see what's not fair