Running general election in a pandemic could double costs

 

The Election Commission has estimated that conducting the 15th general election in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic could cost double of pre-pandemic estimates.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Takiyuddin Hassan said this would cover the cost of equipment procurement, logistics, allowances, and other necessities.

“The EC is always prepared to face the possibility of a holding the 15th general election in the near term.

“It is important to ensure that the conduct of the election is safe, smooth, and flawless, especially in the post-Covid-19 period,” he said in a written parliamentary reply for the previous parliamentary session that ended on Dec 17 last year.

Takiyuddin was responding to Su Keong Siong (DAP-Kampar), who asked about the EC’s preparations for holding the next general election amid a pandemic, and how much this would cost.

For comparison, Takiyuddin had given an estimate of RM1.2 billion during parliamentary debates on August last year. 

Prior to the pandemic, it was estimated that the 2018 general election had cost RM500 million, while the next general election would cost between RM750 million and RM800 million. 

Ahmad Zahid Hamidi

Earlier, it was reported that Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had sought the support of the party's 189 division heads during a meeting last night to pursue a withdrawal from the Perikatan Nasional Plus government, which would trigger a snap election.

Two Umno cabinet ministers, Hishammuddin Hussein and Khairy Jamaluddin, who are not members of the party’s supreme council, have voiced disagreement with the push for a snap election. 

"Those calling for a general election before the pandemic is brought under control are irresponsible and I know that there are those seeking a snap election from my own party. Don't be selfish," Khairy said.

The Umno supreme council is slated to meet at 8pm tonight to discuss this and other matters. Hishammuddin and Khairy would have no say in the meeting.

Meanwhile, Takiyuddin said the EC has been holding engagement sessions with relevant government departments and agencies to ensure the smooth running of elections.

The 15th general election will see additional polling centres being set up in polling districts with a high number of voters, and the electoral roll is being updated regularly.

In addition, the EC has prepared guidelines for preventing the spread of Covid-19 in event of a general election or by-election, based on experience with the by-elections in Chini and Slim, and the Sabah state election. - Mkini