|
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Comelec braces for violent polls
By Carlo P. Mallo
DAVAO CITY -- The Commission on Elections (Comelec) expects an increase in election-related violence in the upcoming synchronized barangay and Sangguniang Kabataang (SK) elections.
This, as barangay polls are historically more violent than regular national and local elections.
Join forum on Sandiganbayan's guilty verdict on Estrada plunder case. Post comments here.
"Barangay elections are hotly contested," said Lacsasa Casar, Davao City's 3rd district election officer, in an interview Wednesday.
Casar said that because the candidates in the barangay polls are at most times neighbors, it is inevitable that their paths would cross more often paving way for more confrontation.
Casar added that at times, due to the relatively small areas of concentration, supporters of rival candidates are subjected to more friction with each other.
Moreover, Casar does not discount the possibility of a more aggressive stance of armed rebel groups in the barangay polls. "But I do encourage them to participate in the elections," Casar added, "through the democratic process."
Comelec is also expecting a rush of last-minute filers Thursday, the deadline for the filing of certificate of candidate for both contests.
The elections are set on October 29.
The campaign period for the upcoming polls will start Saturday. "We are ready to hold the polls," Casar said. (Sun.Star Davao/Sunnex)
For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star Iloilo. (October 18, 2007 issue)
Write letter to the editor. Click here.
Join the Sun.Star message board. Click here. |
|
|
|
[return to top]
[home]
|
|
Support of Arroyo’s House allies to impeach bid seen