The Legislative Assembly elections are due to be held, as planned, on 17 September, after consideration by the Electoral Affairs Commission for the Legislative Assembly Election of conditions at polling stations.

The Chairman of the Commission, Mr Tong Hio Fong, on Wednesday (30 August) confirmed the election date, following the Commission’s weekly meeting.

The Commission noted that some facilities at polling venues were damaged by Typhoon Hato, but could be fixed promptly, in order to ensure normal operations on election day, stated Mr Tong.

Mr Tong stated the Commission had noted opinion suggesting postponement of the election; however, the Commission also noted such action would affect the scheduling of a range of election-linked events, including the date for the Chief Executive’s appointment of some Legislative Assembly members, and the start of a new term of office for the Legislative Assembly.

Should a major public emergency occur on election day this year, the Chief Executive would announce another date for organising polling. In that case, a new polling day should be no later than 30 days on from 17 September. The Commission would pay close attention to prevailing weather conditions, adding that the safety of the public was the Commission’s priority, said Mr Tong.