Will Chempaka voters meet the 70 per cent turnout target?

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Chempaka By-Election Turnout Target Unclear Amidst Low Early Voting

The Election Commission (EC) has expressed hope that over 70 per cent of the 20,390 registered normal voters in the Chempaka state constituency will cast their ballots. However, with only 35.40 per cent of early voters participating, the likelihood of meeting this target remains uncertain. The by-election was necessitated by the passing of the incumbent, former Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, on February 12.
EC's Hope for Normal Voter Turnout

The Election Commission is anticipating a higher turnout from the 20,390 normal voters who are scheduled to vote. EC deputy chairman Datuk Seri Mohd Hashim Abdullah indicated that favourable weather conditions and the presence of security personnel should facilitate voter participation. He conveyed optimism that the voters would exercise their right to vote without hindrance.
Low Early Voter Participation

In contrast to the hopes for the normal vote, the early voting process saw a significantly lower participation rate. Out of 1,497 eligible early voters, comprising army personnel and their spouses, only 530, or 35.40 per cent, cast their votes. This figure falls considerably short of the EC's initial 70 per cent target for early voters.
By-Election Context

The Chempaka state seat became vacant following the death of its long-serving representative, Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, who succumbed to prostate cancer. This by-election features a five-cornered contest. The candidates include PAS's nominee Ahmad Fathan Mahmood@ Mahamad, alongside four independent candidates: Izat Bukhary Ismail Bukhary, Sharif Mahmood, Fadzillah Hussin, and Aslah Mamat.
EC to Study Early Voting Performance

Following the subdued turnout for early voting, the Election Commission plans to conduct a review of the process. Datuk Seri Mohd Hashim Abdullah stated that the EC would undertake a study to understand the reasons behind the low participation and identify areas for improvement. He indicated that changes and enhancements would be made, with potential coordination with relevant parties to ensure a more effective system in future.

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Will Chempaka voters meet the 70 per cent turnout target?

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