Election Commission has SOPs for Sabah polls amid unstable weather, may postpone voting in serious floods or landslides, says chairman
TUARAN: The Election Commission is prepared for potential disasters like floods and landslides during tomorrow’s Sabah state election amid unstable weather conditions.
EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said the commission has prepared standard operating procedures to ensure a smooth voting process.
He stated the EC would act based on current situations and information from the District Disaster Committee and local authorities.
The unstable weather is also expected to affect voter turnout in areas experiencing heavy rain or flooding.
“Based on the existing regulations, no additional time is given,” he said during a press conference today.
However, he noted the EC could postpone the election process in extremely serious circumstances.
This decision would be based on situation reports from the District Disaster Committee.
“The EC is always sensitive to these rather unstable weather conditions,” Ramlan added.
He revealed the commission recently discussed preparations with the Malaysian Meteorological Department and National Disaster Management Agency.
These discussions focused on potential disasters occurring during the election period.
The EC’s contingency plans aim to address any eventuality that might disrupt the voting process. – Bernama
