Should election nominations be extended beyond one day?

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Election Commission Considers Extending Nomination Period and Enabling Online Submissions

The Election Commission (EC) is actively reviewing proposals to extend the nomination period beyond a single day and to introduce online submission capabilities for election nominations. This potential shift necessitates amendments to current electoral laws and regulations, as the existing framework mandates a one-day nomination period with specific timeframes for submission and announcements, and requires physical submission of hard copy forms by candidates, proposers, or seconders.
Legal and Regulatory Hurdles to Online Nominations

Under the current electoral laws, the nomination process is strictly confined to a single day, typically from 9 am to 10 am, with results announced by 11 am. The fundamental challenge to implementing online nominations lies in the legal requirement for candidates, proposers, or seconders to physically present hard copies of the nomination form. This legal constraint means that a complete overhaul of existing legislation and regulations would be required before an online nomination system could be legally viable.
Rationale for Extending Nomination Period

The impetus for considering an extended nomination period and a more streamlined submission process stems from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the nation's transition to a "new normal." Various political parties and stakeholders have voiced concerns that the current one-day nomination period may pose logistical challenges and health risks in the context of a pandemic, prompting the EC to explore more adaptable procedures.
Pre-nomination Procedures to Expedite the Process

To mitigate the pressures of the current one-day nomination system, the EC has previously allowed candidates in by-elections to obtain nomination forms in advance. Furthermore, candidates are currently encouraged to complete their nomination forms and pay the requisite deposits at state election offices prior to the official nomination day. This proactive approach aims to ensure all documentation is accurate and complete, thereby facilitating a smoother and more formal submission on the designated nomination day.
Upcoming Chini By-election as a Test Case

The forthcoming Chini state by-election in Pahang is set to be the first election conducted under the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic conditions. Nominations for this by-election are scheduled for June 20, with early voting on June 30 and polling on July 4. This election was triggered by the passing of the incumbent assemblyman, Datuk Seri Abu Bakar Harun, on May 6, and its proceedings will likely inform future decisions regarding nomination processes.

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Should election nominations be extended beyond one day?

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