KKM, EC Working On Protocols For Covid-19 Positive Voters During GE-15, Says KJ
Several methods are being discussed to allow Covid-19 positive voters to cast their vote in the next general election.
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The Health Ministry (MoH) and the Election Commission are working in tandem to develop a protocol for Covid-19 patients to vote in the 15th General Election, said Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin Abu Bakar.
He said that voting is a constitutional right of every citizen and nobody should be denied the right to cast their vote.
“Covid-19 will stay with us. If we deny them of their rights (positive voters) to vote, we are denying a constitutional right,” Khairy was quoted as saying by Bernama.
Several methods are being discussed by MoH and EC before the new guideline can be finalised, Khairy said.
“Some said let those infected with Covid-19 to use postal vote but how would it be for those who were infected one or two days before polling day?
“If they wish to vote, who are going to take them or which channel to use. Should we have a special channel for Covid-19 patients …so this matter needs more time,” he added.
Khairy also reiterated his stand for the government to prioritise the public health when planning to hold the next general election.
READ MORE: No GE-15 Until Covid-19 Is Under Control, Says Health Minister
“We need to find the most suitable timing and period of lowest risk to hold GE-15 as it involves the people going out to campaign and vote,” he said.
He added that the MoH is now studying to detect the effects of the Covid-19 Omicron BA.2 variant in the country.
“Now we are facing Omicron BA.2 and its effects on a single case and serious impact are being studied so that we can make a conclusion if we are heading towards a pandemic,” he said.
Previously, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who is also one of the three UMNO vice-presidents, said that the Parliament dissolution to make way for GE-15 would be discussed by the party’s top echelons.
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