CAEAL to exhibit sample polling stations to enhance education

The Electoral Affairs Commission for the Legislative Assembly Election (CAEAL) yesterday announced that it will display two mock-up polling stations for this year’s direct and indirect elections. The commission urges young local people to participate in the “try out voting” to enhance their understanding of the electoral process and boost civic engagement.

According to Seng Ioi Man, the president of CAEAL, the mock-up polling stations will be established at the Tap Seac Multisport Pavilion and Macau Forum, doubling the number of locations available for this type of display compared to previous elections.

The opening dates are tentatively set from September 6 to 12, extending the display period from five to seven days, including Saturday and Sunday. Interactive elements will enhance visitors’ understanding of polling station operations and the Legislative Assembly (AL) elections.

Seng pointed out that elections are a vital component of civic education, highlighting the importance of these polling stations. He added that they help familiarize voters with the electoral process and play a significant role in promoting civic awareness.

“Establishing mock-up polling stations is a cherished tradition that allows voters to engage with the election process ahead of time. They provide an opportunity for young people and citizens who are not yet eligible to vote to participate. Each session introduces new voters who may have never cast a ballot before, while seasoned voters can revisit their experiences after many years. Additionally, newly registered voters can become comfortable with the voting process,” the official said.

The CAEAL announced its commitment to encouraging more schools to organize student visits to the venues through the Education and Youth Development Bureau. Seng stated that “By visiting the mock-up polling stations, young people can equip themselves to participate in the upcoming Legislative Assembly elections.”

Seng emphasized the CAEAL is also encouraging those visually impaired or blind to visit these stations, allowing them to familiarize themselves with the special templates designed to assist them in the voting day.

Voting notification letters are on the way

The CAEAL announced at a press briefing following yesterday’s closed-door meeting that it is now entering the next phase of the election procedures. During this phase, the distribution schedule for voting notification letters will be based on voter registration addresses as of May 31 of this year, with distribution set to begin mid-month. These letters will include important information provided via QR codes, such as each voter’s designated polling location. Voters can also inquire about their polling stations through various channels, including their Macao One Account, the Legislative Assembly’s election website, and 50 self-service kiosks situated in Macau, Hengqin, and four cities across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area, namely Guangzhou, Zhuhai, Zhongshan, and Jiangmen.

No new illegality cases reported

The CAEAL reported that, as of last week, the number of cases reported involving alleged illegal campaigning had reached 18, with no new cases reported since then. It reminded the public that, per the election law, public entities, including public schools, must maintain neutrality. This means that public entities or public-school staff members are prohibited from engaging in campaigning or vote-seeking activities during working hours or at their workplaces.

While the relevant law does not specify regulations for private schools, these institutions may conduct election campaign activities based on their own circumstances. Seng urged all public or private schools to uphold the principle of fairness and handle these matters impartially.

He noted that it is essential to assess whether election campaign activities during school opening ceremonies fall within the designated election campaign period.