KUALA LUMPUR – The police will investigate incidents of election vandalism, such as damaged posters, banners, and flags, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani.
However, it is not uncommon for election materials to be vandalised prior to polling day, he told reporters at the early voting centre in the Bukit Aman police headquarters here today.
“Incidents of poster and flag vandalism are (things) that did not just happen this year. It has happened in past general elections as well.”
Even though there is no avoiding it, the vandalism that has occurred this year is milder than what has happened in the past, he said.
“Yes, it does happen. But even so, police will investigate (such cases) thoroughly and fairly.”
In the past week, posters of various candidates have been targets of vandalism, such as those of Pakatan Harapan’s Segambut candidate Hannah Yeoh, Permatang Pauh candidate Nurul Izzah Anwar, and Ayer Hitam candidate Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali.
Barisan Nasional’s Putrajaya candidate Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor has also alleged that some of his campaign materials have been vandalised by irresponsible parties.
Meanwhile, police are expecting traffic to worsen by this Thursday, ahead of polling day on Saturday.
“We have taken note that the government has declared November 18 and 19 as public holidays, so we will be monitoring traffic as early as Thursday.
“There should not be any problems as the traffic department is experienced in the matter, especially during elections.”
Acryl Sani, however, advised all voters who are returning home to vote to manage their travelling arrangements and follow all traffic regulations.
On early voting today, he said this year’s process is running smoothly and has been the most systematic.
“Election observers told us that this year’s early voting has been the most systematic, so we hope that it can help in completing the process within the expected time frame.” – The Vibes, November 15, 2022
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