Officials place voter lists on a notice board for public viewing in September. NEC
The 2023 voter list registration and verification process for all communes has officially commenced nationwide and is proceeding smoothly, according to the National Election Committee (NEC).
In an October 1 press release, the NEC explained that the process will span 19 days, including Saturdays and Sundays, from October 1-19.
It said registration offices will be closed on October 14 to facilitate a performance review by the commune councils and voter registration teams.
“The NEC wishes to notify any Cambodian citizens who have not registered, those who have reached the age of 18 as of December 31, or those who have relocated to a new commune, to register their current residential address,” it urged.
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The statement added that individuals with incorrect information could seek corrections from the voter registration team in their respective communes during the examination period.
Chhim Chanthoeun, director of the Kampong Cham provincial election commission, reported on October 1 that the process was going well at all 109 communes in the province, with offices opening at 7am.
“The voter list revision and registration process for 2023 in all communes is proceeding smoothly without any issues.
“Both the equipment and registration officers are ready, although due to heavy rainfall some people are facing difficulties in travelling to verify and register their names,” he acknowledged.
Sam Kuntheamy, executive director of the NGO Neutral and Impartial Committee for Free and Fair Elections in Cambodia (NICFEC), claimed that the majority of the public have not received adequate information regarding this process.
He said it is imperative for the NEC at all levels and the relevant authorities to increase their efforts in disseminating information to enhance public awareness of procedures.
“I have observed that many people appear to have limited information about this process, as they have recently voted and may not understand the reasons for the need to register once more.
“Hence, there is a need for greater public awareness. Once people grasp the significance of this, they will actively engage in the verification and registration process,” he added.
NEC spokesperson Som Sorida confirmed that the process began on time in all communes nationwide, except for Wat Tamim in Battambang province’s Sangke district. This particular commune faced operational challenges due to flooding.
Nevertheless, he reported that the registration team successfully relocated to a secure location approximately 100m away from the commune hall.
In all, the 1,652 communes across the country have been able to continue their operations smoothly.
“Regarding public order, safety and security, there are no discernible issues; everything is in good order. People are engaging smoothly with the process of checking their names and registering,” he said.
