SIBU: The Central Election Committee is all set to face any possibilities for the upcoming PKR poll in the state. For one, each voting information will be manually copied should the e-voting system faces problems.
This back-up plan was announced by Kanowit PKR branch secretary George Chen, who said the plan was needed due to possible poor telecommunication signal and Internet coverage in certain locations, especially in rural areas, that might affect the e-voting system.
“The committee is in the midst of identifying the suitable locations for polling centres, as well as technically preparing for e-voting. It’s possible to open more than one polling centre in every branch.
“This is necessary because of the terrain structure and the size of some areas. For example, Hulu Rejang is as big as Pahang,” he said when contacted today.
He said it would be difficult for voters if there’s only one centre as it would take them a long time to reach the place.
However, he felt confident that the election would go smoothly and peacefully. He had also requested for the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to station their officers at polling centres to avoid any untoward incident throughout the election.
“There are 11 branches in central Sarawak, including Nangka, Kanowit, Kapit, Julau and Selangau. More than 20,000 members will cast their votes this Nov 10,” he said, adding that there were some members who were upset when the polling dates were postponed twice.
The election was supposed to take place on Sept 8 and 9, before it was postponed to Oct 26 and 27 and then again to Nov 10.
Asked about the battle for PKR deputy-president post between Datuk Seri Azmin Ali and Rafizi Ramli, he said both leaders have their own strength.
“They are both respectable leaders. We let the members decide. Whoever holds the position will still be a part of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s team.
“Whoever wins, he will lead the party, community and country to the right path,” he said.
