KOROR, Palau – The Koror State Rangers issued a public notice on November 4, enforcing a strict ban on election campaigning during Election Day on Tuesday, November 5. The directive, intended to ensure a fair and undisturbed voting process, restricts all public campaign activities from midnight until the polls close at 7 p.m.
Legal Basis and Prohibited Activities
The ban is in accordance with Koror State Public Law K7-131-2002, sections 3 (A), (B), and (C), which prohibit public campaigning on Election Day for presidential, vice-presidential, senatorial, and delegate candidates, as well as political groups involved in the election.
The announcement outlines several key restrictions:
- Campaign Material Removal: All campaign signs, posters, billboards, and other visible materials must be removed by midnight prior to Election Day. This includes physical and digital media.
- Broadcast and Digital Media Restrictions: Any election-related messages broadcast on radio, television, or online must be paused for the entire day.
- Ban on Campaign Tents and Food Services: Setting up campaign tents, distributing food or drinks, or providing any items that could influence voters is prohibited.
- Transportation and Other Services: Candidates, supporters, and campaign groups are barred from offering transportation or services that could affect voter choices at polling stations.
- Financial Influence: Providing money or material support to voters with the intent to sway their vote is forbidden.
Special Measures for Campaign Signage
In cases where removal of large campaign signs is impractical, candidates may cover them, provided they submitted a written request to the Koror State Building and Zoning – Planning Commission by November 4. This alternative allows candidates to conceal signage without dismantling structures, ensuring compliance with the law.
Appeal for Compliance and Public Support
Koror State Rangers Director emphasized the importance of following these rules to ensure a peaceful and fair election. In the announcement, the director urged full cooperation from all candidates, political groups, and associations, noting that strict compliance will help create a neutral environment for voters.
The Rangers also encouraged the general public to observe the campaign-free period, asking community members to refrain from activities that could be interpreted as campaigning. For questions about the restrictions, the Koror State Rangers’ Central Admin Office and Central Dispatch Line are available for assistance.
Community Involvement in Election Integrity
In addition to enforcement, the Koror State Rangers are working with other agencies to promote public compliance. The Rangers highlighted that a peaceful Election Day is in the best interest of the community and called on everyone, from candidates to voters, to respect the law.
Public advisories, including radio announcements, will be broadcast throughout November 5 to remind the public of the prohibitions in place.
Ensuring Fairness in a Closely Watched Election
The 2024 general election is expected to be competitive, with candidates vying for the presidential and vice-presidential seats as well as senatorial and delegate positions. The campaign ban, according to Koror State Rangers, is aimed at preventing undue influence on voters during the final hours of the election.
Contact Information
For questions about the campaign prohibitions, candidates, political groups, and residents can contact the Koror State Rangers Central Admin Office at 488-8738 or the Central Dispatch Line at 488-2150.
With candidates, the public, and government offices collaborating, the Koror State Rangers aim to ensure a respectful and interference-free Election Day for all of Koror State. (By: Eustoria Marie Borja)