Due to the spread of COVID-19 and an increase in the number of voters, the election sub-commission is planning to open 22 additional polling booths in Mon State, said U Hein Lin Htet, Secretary of the Mon State Election Sub-Commission.

“The number of eligible voters may increase. In addition, the polling booths with more than 3,000 voters will be sub-divided in the relative townships due to the spread of COVID-19. Currently, we plan to open more polling booths as the number of eligible voters may increase after the release of voters’ lists for the first time,” he said.

The sub-commission has prepared for the additional polling staff and equipment required for 22 more polling booths.

According to the election law, a polling booth can accept from 300 to 3,000 people. The polling booths with more than 3,000 people are located in Thaton, Thanphyuzayat and Paung Townships. According to the law, additional polling stations shall be opened for the polling booths with more than 3,000 people.

A total of 302 candidates from 17 political parties plus independent candidates have registered to run for the seats in the 2020 General Election.

There are more than 1,760,000 eligible voters in Mon State, where more than 200,000 first-time voters and more than 4,000 voters with disabilities are included.

The Sub-Commission plans to open 970 polling booths in Mon State.