Up to local councils to act over early election posters, says EC

PETALING JAYA: The onus is on local councils, and not the Election Commission (EC), to take action against political parties that put up their campaign materials prior to the campaign period.
EC chairman Tan Sri Mohd Hashim Abdullah said the commission reserves no right to penalise or demand any parties or individuals to take down the materials, as the election process has yet to start.
"The EC has no power to take action against any quarters as these rights can only be enforced during the official election campaign period, in line with the Election Offences Act 1954.
"The election campaign period only starts on nomination day and ends at midnight the day before polling day," he said in a statement today.
Mohd Hashim's statement came after Barisan Nasional (BN) in Penang began putting up campaign posters, hitting out at Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, despite the Parliament yet to be dissolved.
The posters were later taken down by Penang Island City Council workers.
"In this regard, the EC would like to advise all quarters to adhere to all existing rules and regulations set by the respective local councils and any other authorities, to ensure the safety and harmony of the community," Mohd Hashim said.
Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) had, on Wednesday, also warned political parties not to affix flags or banners on any of its facilities or infrastructure, or face possible action.
Its chief corporate officer, Datuk Roslan Ab Rahman, had said the act poses a danger due to the risk of being electrocuted, as well as power supply interruptions should a flashover or an abnormal electrical discharge occur.