Friday, February 16, 2007 Some election laws are ‘compromising’: poll office
LAGAWE, Ifugao -- Although an orderly and peaceful election is expected in this province on May 14, some election laws may reportedly compromise the situation, if strictly implemented.
This was disclosed by Commission on Election (Comelec) provincial supervisor Ricardo Bulintao, when asked what he foresees as possible election problems in the province.
He said the Comelec here will be ready for the coming elections “but it is up to our central office, if they are likewise ready, by giving us the final instructions and guidelines,” he said.
Bulintao particularly identified that one of the election laws that cannot be strictly implemented because it might cause more trouble is the designation of common poster areas for the various candidates.
He said election law prohibits the display of candidates’ posters on walls of any public structures, on trees and along roads or thoroughfares except in areas designated by the Comelec. But, considering the limited spaces and the small number of conspicuous areas available in the province because of its topography, he said that it would be impractical to strictly implement this law.
“If we will do it, this might engender conflicts and ignite violence because some rival candidates may take advantage of the situation and destroy the posters of their opponents,” Bulintao said.
Another problem being anticipated is the release of the final list of voters from the Comelec central office, including the identification cards of newly-registered voters because the printing is done by the Comelec central office.
Meanwhile, unlike in other places of the country, there are no reported cases of election-related violence or irregularities yet in this province.
Bulintao assured that he already briefed and prepared the different election bodies and task forces in the municipalities to do their duties and responsibilities. (PIA-Ifugao)
