No campaigning on Cooling-off Day: Elections Dept
SINGAPORE: Hougang voters will go to the polls on Saturday, May 26. The Elections Department has reminded the public that Friday is Cooling-off Day, when campaigning is disallowed and election advertising must not be published or displayed.
This is to let voters reflect rationally on various issues raised at an election before going to the polls.
Under the law, the publication and display of election advertising (including on the internet and by SMSes/MMSes) which are not already lawfully displayed or published before the start of Cooling-off Day are prohibited.
Also disallowed - canvassing and visiting homes and workplaces of voters in connection with the by-election, and holding election meetings.
Other prohibited activities include wearing, carrying or displaying any political insignia or propaganda such as a badge, symbol, rosette, favour, set of colours, flag, advertisement, handbill, placard, poster or replica of voting paper on any person and vehicle.
There are, however, some exceptions to the prohibition of campaign activities on Cooling-off Day.
Among other things, media reports on radio and television and in the newspapers, and the transmission of personal political views by individuals to other individuals on a non-commercial basis, via the Internet, telephone or other electronic means are permitted.
Also allowed, approved posters or banners lawfully displayed before the start of Cooling-off Day.
The Elections Department said candidates and their supporters should refrain from attending public events on Cooling-off Day and Polling Day.
Attending religious ceremonies or worship services, or attending functions in the course of work or employment would still be permissible, subjected to the general rule prohibiting campaigning and election advertising on Cooling-off Day and Polling Day.
Anyone who contravenes the law could be fined and/or jailed.
Polling stations will open from 8am to 8pm on Saturday. Voters are reminded to bring along their NRIC/passport and poll card to the polling station.
-CNA/ac