GUA MUSANG (Aug 1): Prospective candidates in the Nenggiri by-election are advised to fill in the nomination form and do an initial check with the office of the returning officer or the Kelantan Election Office prior to nomination day this Saturday.

Election Commission (EC) secretary Datuk Ikmalrudin Ishak said this was to ensure a smooth nomination process at the Dewan Perdana of the Gua Musang District Council complex.

“The nomination paper can be submitted to the returning officer from 9am to 10am by the prospective candidate, the proposer and the seconder, or any two or one of them.

“In addition, prospective candidates are advised to make the deposit payment in advance and bring the receipt as proof of payment on nomination day,” he said in a statement on Thursday.

According to Ikmalrudin, candidates representing political parties are required to submit a letter of authorisation to use the party symbol when submitting their nomination forms.

He also said that using any musical instruments or loudspeakers for political propaganda by any means, including vehicles, is not permitted and is an offence under the Election Offences Act 1954.

The public and supporters accompanying candidates are also prohibited from waiting or being within 50 metres of the nomination centre perimeter set.

Ikmalrudin added that candidates who have paid a deposit for election campaign materials are subject to the bylaws of the local authority.

“The EC also urged prospective candidates and political parties involved to comply with laws, regulations, code of ethics and instructions issued by the commission, police and local authorities to ensure a smooth nomination process,” he said.

The by-election was called after the Kelantan state assembly speaker was informed that its representative, Mohd Azizi Abu Naim, had ceased to be a member of Bersatu on June 13.

The EC has set Aug 17 for polling, with early voting on Aug 13.

https://www.theedgemarkets.com/node/721352