EC reminds Tg Piai candidates to follow the rules

PONTIAN: The Election Commission (EC) has reminded all parties involved in the Tanjung Piai parliamentary by-election to adhere to the election rules and ethics during the campaign period.

Chairman Datuk Azhar Azizan Harun (pic) said the campaign period, which began after the announcement of the candidates by the returning officer on Saturday (Nov 2), is until 11.59pm on Nov 15.

"The EC would like to remind all parties that any campaign activities such as serving food and drinks, as well as handing out gifts, either in cash or kind, are offences under the Electoral Offences Act 1954.

"Any actions or statements that disturbs any voters from exercising their rights to vote freely is also an offence under the same Act," he said in a statement here on Monday (Nov 4).

Azhar also reminded the candidates and the parties they were representing not to misuse government assets or its authorisation just to get votes.

He said candidates and those involved in the campaign activities should be prudent and follow campaign ethics that guarantees community harmony.

Azhar pointed out that all instructions from the authorities, especially the EC, police, Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) and local councils, should always be followed.

"Any quarters that have information or statements on any offences made by those involved during the campaign activities should report it to the relevant authorities.

"Any activities that involve corruption activities should be reported to the MACC, while offences under the Electoral Offences Act or Penal Code should be lodged with the police," he said.

Azhar also reminded that any from of campaign or activity to appeal for votes was not permitted on polling day, which included using social media channels.

"All parties are not allowed to open, build or maintain any offices or premises during polling day," he said.

Azhar also said the EC hoped all quarters would adhere to the rules, regulations and campaign ethics during the by-election to make sure it runs smoothly and does not pose a threat to public order and safety.

The EC has set Nov 12 as early voting, while polling day falls on Nov 16.

The Tanjung Piai polls will be a six-cornered fight between Pakatan Harapan’s Karmaine Sardini, Barisan Nasional ’s Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng, Gerakan’s Wendy Subramaniam, Pan Malaysian Islamic Front (Berjasa)’s Datuk Dr Badhrulhisham Abdul Aziz, and two independent candidates - Faridah Aryani Abdul Ghaffar and Dr Ng Chuan Lock.- Star