All systems go: EC officers finalising preparations for the nomination process at the Semporna Parliamentary Nomination Centre at the Semporna Community Arena. — Bernama
KOTA KINABALU: It is all systems go for the Sabah election, with nominations kicking off today and at least a dozen political parties set to field candidates in 73 seats.
The Election Commission (EC) and the police have put in place all arrangements to ensure a smooth nomination process.
EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said his officers had visited the centres and briefed and trained returning officers on what needed to be done.
He said logistics, accessibility, Internet connectivity and other aspects were also addressed.
“Everything is ready for nomination day,” he told reporters after conducting a final check at the Dewan Sulaman nomination centre in Tuaran.
On the eve of nomination, more than 3,400 forms had been taken up and more than 325 deposits paid.
Ramlan reminded candidates, their proposers and seconders to be on time for registration, which is only open from 9am to 10am.
Asked whether the anti-hopping law applies to candidates who have left or quit their parties to join another and become candidates this time, he said this matter is under the jurisdiction of the Parliament Speaker.
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Meanwhile, more than 9,300 police personnel have been deployed to all 73 constituencies, including 15 identified as critical areas.
Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the police are prepared for duty before, during and after the election.
“More focus will be given to places deemed as hotspots or critical areas such as Istana Negeri, administrative buildings, the Chief Minister’s Department and political party headquarters or command centres.
“There will be over 4,300 personnel and officers assigned to the various nomination centres across Sabah with more to be stationed at the identified hotspots,” said Mohd Khalid after addressing personnel in preparation for the polls at the Kota Kinabalu police headquarters.
“We are not only looking at the political aspects but also keeping an eye on areas with active associations or NGO movements.
“We will monitor for elements of violence as well as other security threats. Special attention will be given to individuals or groups that may instigate disunity and chaos.”
The IGP said apart from the election, the police are also ready to face possible disasters during this monsoon season.
In his speech, Mohd Khalid reminded his men that the government has been taking care of their welfare, including pushing for salary adjustments and better housing facilities.
He advised political parties to stay away from topics that touch on religious and racial sensitivities, slander and other controversial subjects to maintain public order during this election.
The Sabah Assembly was dissolved on Oct 6 to make way for the 17th state election.
