Members of the Electoral Affairs Commission for the Chief Executive Election paid visits to three sites under consideration for use on 16 June as polling stations for the election of the members of the Chief Executive Election Committee.

After visiting the three potential sites for polling stations, namely the Macao Polytechnic Institute Multisport Pavilion, the Macao Forum, and the Escola Luso-Chinesa Técnico-Profissional, the President of the Electoral Affairs Commission, Ms Song Man Lei, told the media that the Commission would make its decision based on several factors. These included level of convenience and the centrality of location regarding each site to ensure appropriate allocation of polling stations for those representatives eligible to vote on behalf of specific sectors and sub-sectors.

The Commission would also consider the convenience of access for transport at each potential polling station, each venue’s size, and factors relating to public safety. As a result of the site visits, Commission members gained clear insights regarding the potential of all three venues as polling stations.

Ms Song said that the Commission had decided to reduce the number of polling stations from five in the previous Chief Executive Election process in 2014, to three this time. This was based on considerations including efficient use of resources and the need to ensure effective coordination.

It was anticipated that voting by representatives of two sectors/sub-sectors might take place via the Macao Polytechnic Institute Multisport Pavilion. Those representing a further three sectors/sub-sectors might cast votes via the Macao Forum; and representatives for a further two sectors/sub-sectors might do so at the Escola Luso-Chinesa Técnico-Profissional. Just as in the previous election, the polling stations would open from 9am to 6pm on the day of the election for the members of the Chief Executive Election Committee, Ms Song added.

The Public Administration and Civil Service Bureau will hold a briefing at 7pm today, at the conference hall of Macao Science Center, regarding the procedures for the election of the Chief Executive Election Committee. All members of the public are welcome to attend, to gain a better understanding of the voting procedures. No advance booking is required.