The Election Commission’s ruling that mobile phones would not be allowed in polling stations was met with mixed reactions. Although some agreed as it would help to ensure that the secrecy of votes are maintained, some were more skeptical.
However, it appears that the rule has not been enforced properly as a number of viral images and videos have made its way on social media of voters “showing off” who they voted for.
One of such voters even proudly wrote in the caption that “votes are no longer secret“.
Under the law, every voter shall vote for the candidate standing for election by marking on a ballot paper that is then inserted into a secure ballot box.
“No person may ask you who or which political party you voted for. Since amendments to the law in 2006, no one should write your voter number on the counterfoil of the ballot paper given to you.”
“This means your marked ballot paper cannot be traced back to you.”
The punishment for revealing your vote is 2 years of imprisonment, a RM5,000 fine or both.
Another level of stupidity
Such videos and images have gone viral on various social media platforms as netizens slammed those who did so.
“There are those on TikTok that are stupid enough to snap a photo of their ballot paper? They are looking for trouble.”
Another commented, “Another level of stupidity. We don’t care who you vote for because it’s meant to be a secret. That is why you need to fold the paper and immediately put it into the box.”
How should the authorities punish such perpetrators? How should they prevent more voters from doing so in the future?
Also read: M’sians Accuse PN & BN of Offering to Pay TikTokers to Tell Their Followers to Vote For Them
