Egypt

Government to fine non-voters amid Tuesday’s weak poll turnout

As polling stations opened on Tuesday at 9am on the second day of voting in the presidential elections, Tareq Shebl, a member of the commission secretariat, said he will enforce sections of presidential elections law by fining voters LE500 if they fail to cast their ballots.
 
In a phone call with the privately-owned CBC satellite channel, Shebl said on Monday that the law will be activated unless the eligible voter provides a valid excuse. Prosecution will be notified of the names and fines will go to Finance Ministry.
 
Number of eligible voters is estimated at 53,909,306. Voters will cast ballots at 14,000 polling stations. Results will be announced by the High Elections Commission after challenges are made and ballots are counted by 5 June.
 
Shebl refused to disclose number of voters on the third day saying "numbers to be announced after elections." 
 
"So far, the commission has not decided to extend voting days for a third day," he added.
 
Cabinet decided on Monday to give state employees Tuesday off, a move that was considered as attempt to make up for the weak turnout.
 
 
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
 

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