KUCHING: Political parties are advised to abide by the laws and regulations from the Election Commission (EC), police and local councils when it comes to putting up flags or banners during the campaigning period.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng reminded the political parties to obtain a permit from the council to exhibit any election advertisement as stipulated under the MBKS (Election Advertisement) By -Laws 1990.
“There are certain conditions and locations as to where these flags or banners can be put up. Most importantly, they are not to be put up at locations which may block motorists’ view or blocking the traffic lights and directional boards or pose any danger to the public or damage to public property.”
He also stated that putting up flags or banners are only allowed during the campaigning period as announced by the EC.
“Once the election campaigning period begins, the EC governs how parties conduct their campaigns, including the putting up of flags or banners as they are regarded as campaign materials.”
Meanwhile, Kota Samarahan Municipal Council (MPKS) chairman Datuk Peter Minos had also stated that political parties are allowed to put up their flags and banners along the main roads, side roads, kampung roads in MPKS’ jurisdiction as long as this does not obstruct traffic or pose a hazard to road users.
“The political parties would need to propose where they want to put up their flags and banners, and from there, the council will see, check, and approve as public safety is the key point.
“On top of that, the political parties must bear in mind that if the flags and banners obstruct and pose a hazard, the council will pull it down, especially when there are complaints from the public.”
He also reminded the political parties to pull down their flags and banners as soon as the election is over, otherwise, after a given period, the deposits would be forfeited as the council would have to do so itself.
“In cases where banners or posters contain seditious or defamatory or even disturbing public peace, both the council and the police have the right and power to take them down.”
