Cops to maintain presence at all polling stations

Police Commissioner Hilton Guy said yesterday that police officers will be visible at all polling stations for Local Government election on Monday to ensure the safety of all citizens during and after polling hours. The Commissioner noted that in past elections, the police had received complaints from citizens about unlawful activities in and around the vicinity of polling stations, and he has instructed officers to be very vigilant and maintain law and order. He reiterated that it is an offence for members and/or supporters of political parties to congregate and canvass within 100 yards of polling stations.

The Commissioner emphasised that within this area, it is an offence for persons to seek to influence any elector to vote or refrain from voting for any candidate or political party or to ascertain for whom any elector intends to vote or has voted. The Commissioner said that it is an offence for persons to wear clothing bearing any political symbol. He advised further that voters should follow the instructions of the staff of the Elections and Boun-daries Commission and police officers when casting their ballot.