Election Commission Chair "Deeply Apologize for Early Voting Confusion... Manage Voting and Counting Transparently and Accurately"

"COVID-19 Confirmed Patients Vote Using the Same Method as General Voters After General Voting Ends"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Roh Jeong-hee, Chairperson of the Central Election Commission, apologized on the 8th for the inadequate response to early voting by COVID-19 confirmed patients.

On the same day, Chairperson Roh stated in a press release at the Central Election Commission Gwacheon Office, "As the chairperson, I deeply feel responsible and apologize for the confusion and inconvenience caused by insufficient preparation regarding early voting management."

She said, "Despite the difficult situation with over 200,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases per day, a record-high early voting rate of 36.93% was achieved, with many voters participating in early voting. We thank the voters who participated despite the hardships caused by COVID-19 infection, and we sincerely apologize again to the voters who experienced inconvenience and confusion, as well as to those who worked hard on site."

Regarding the presidential election on the 9th, Chairperson Roh said, "The Election Commission has renewed its determination and prepared to ensure that all voters can exercise their voting rights without inconvenience, and we will do our best until the moment the voting and counting are completed." She added, "All polling stations were thoroughly disinfected so that voters can vote with peace of mind, and disinfection supplies such as hand sanitizers and disposable gloves were also provided."

She continued, "When going to vote, please be sure to wear a mask and follow the public action guidelines for voting participation, such as maintaining social distancing and refraining from conversation."

Regarding voters who are COVID-19 confirmed or in quarantine, Chairperson Roh said, "From 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM tomorrow, you can vote at the polling station in your jurisdiction in the same way as general voters. We ask for your understanding that voting for these voters will take place after the general voters have finished voting to ensure everyone can vote safely and stably."

She emphasized, "We will take seriously every precious vote that reflects the will of the people and manage the voting and counting more transparently and accurately. Please cast your vote with hope for a better future."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.