The Khumi Affairs Coordination Committee (KACC) called for polling reinstated in 12 village-tracts in Paletwa Township, located in southern Chin State.
The Union Election Commission (UEC) canceled the election in 94 village-tracts in the township on October 27, claiming regional instability. Yet, according to a KACC statement released the following day, in 12 village-tracts around Sami town, it’s peaceful.
“Travel is convenient and security is also fine in these 12 village-tracts,” Salai Pein Nang, coordinator for KACC, told Khonumthung News. “I think it would be good if the election commission allows the election in these areas.”
KACC wants polling to proceed in the village-tracts of Thamang Thar, Twi Linwa, Bawngwi, Mee Chaung Tharwa, Taiwa, Per Mawng, Kanawng, Sin Ohwa, Ahtet Balai, Wah Yon, Shwe Likewa and Kon Pyin.
Ma Nang Wai, KACC’s spokesperson, said UEC is only allowing polling in downtown Paletwa, Sami town and Shin Letwa village-tract.
“People can travel between Paletwa and Sami. Goods are being transported between towns, with no clashes being reported,” Ma Nang Wai said. And election ballots and other supplies are being sent through the main road.
Paletwa Township has 102 village-tracts. In Constituency-1, there are 45 and there are 57 in Constituency-2. Polling will only occur in four wards in downtown Paletwa, three wards in Sami and Shin Letwa village-tract.
More than 50,000 people living in the 94 village-tracts where the election is canceled will lose their right to vote. While only about 10,000 will be able to cast their ballots in the township on the November 8 election day.