EC expects 75pc to 80pc voter turnout for Balakong by-election
BANGI: The Election Commission (EC) is expecting voter turnout of between 75 and 80 per cent for the Balakong by-election, with the results expected at 10pm on Sept 8.
EC secretary Datuk Mohamed Elias Abu Bakar said as polling hours had been extended by 30 minutes to 5.30pm, he hoped that more voters would come out and exercise their right by casting their votes.
“We also hope that the campaign will run smoothly and peacefully.
“All quarters, including political leaders, candidates, supporters and non-governmental organisations, should adhere to the rules and regulations enforced by EC and police,” he added.
There are 62,219 registered voters in the Balakong constituency, with 65 per cent of them Chinese.
Elias reminded MCA and Pakatan Harapan (PH) to refrain from using social media platforms to influence voters on polling day.
He said MCA and PH candidates could begin their 21-day campaigning period starting yesterday until 11.59pm on Sept 7.
Asked why the campaigning period was set at 21 days, compared with 14 days during the Sungai Kandis by-election, Elias said the decision was made after taking into account the Hari Raya Aidiladha and National Day public holidays.
“Therefore, EC believes that Sept 8 is the best day for both candidates.”