EC lists out main expenditures

> Amount also covers logistics and costs for 250,000 temporary workers

PUTRAJAYA: An estimated RM400 million is needed to conduct the 14th general election (GE14), according to the Election Commission (EC).

Its chairman Tan Sri Mohd Hashim Abdullah said expenditures included venue rental costs, procurement of equipment and payment of allowances.

“All nomination, polling and counting centres have been identified and are ready to operate,” he said, adding that 250,000 temporary workers were needed to ensure smooth running of GE14.

He said transport requirements, including helicopters, had also been identified, with all logistics preparations in good order.

The EC expects 100,000 representatives or agents of contesting parties to act as observers throughout GE14, excluding observers outside polling centres, Bernama reported.

“The commission would like to remind candidates that they must have their representatives or agents around throughout the election process.

“We will read out the names of these observers to assure the public of transparency and fairness. Therefore, political parties should not worry about transparency of the electoral process.”

He said the EC was also waiting for a response from international observers, including from Commonwealth and Asean countries, who have been invited for GE14.

The EC has also appointed local observers from non-partisan nongovernmental organisations and university representatives.

On his own preparation in leading the EC for the first time in a general election, Mohd Hashim said it was a challenge. “I am dealing with various emotions, but I am optimistic that I can do what is best as I am also assisted by the EC workforce, secretariat officials and committed and experienced officers.”

Describing the prior seven by-elections and the 11th Sarawak state election as “training grounds”, he said he would apply such valuable experience in GE14.