Electoral Affairs Commission chairman David Lok Kai-hong said over 1.3 million voters casting their ballots in Sunday’s Legislative Council election was encouraging amid the current social climate.
Lok, speaking after polls closed at 11.30pm, said the commission’s role was to ensure a fair, just and honest election and would not interpret the 31.9 percent geographical constituency turnout.
He acknowledged challenges in holding the election but said the public turnout demonstrated positive participation.
The commission received 457 election-related complaints throughout the day, with most involving campaign activities in private and government buildings. The majority have been addressed, Lok said, and the rest will be followed up promptly.
Regarding the extended voting hours until 11.30pm, Lok described it as a voter facilitation measure rather than an attempt to boost turnout, as those unwilling to vote would not do so regardless. He said the commission would review the measure's effectiveness against its cost.
Lok also said the commission would evaluate the necessity of retaining special polling stations at police stations and consider the convenience and value of stations at Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and the airport.
On reports of companies inquiring whether employees had voted, Lok said any promotional activities tied to voting must adhere to two principles: they must not guide voters toward specific candidates or parties, and no one should be compelled to disclose their voting status.
He also addressed the online resale of souvenir cards given to voters, saying the commission could not legally prevent it. “If you want the souvenir card, it's best to come vote yourself,” Lok said.
Three polling stations affected by a recent Tai Po fire saw turnout rates similar to others, Lok added, noting some affected residents had voted in hopes legislators would voice their concerns.
In the geographical constituencies, New Territories South West recorded the highest turnout at 32.69 percent, followed by New Territories South East and New Territories North West, both at 32.64 percent.
For functional constituencies, the Commercial (Third) and Technology and Innovation sectors achieved 100 percent turnout, with the fisheries and agriculture sector reaching 97.09 percent. The Election Committee constituency saw a 99.45 percent turnout.
Approximately 7,100 voters cast their ballots at border polling stations, while around 20,000 voted at dedicated stations for civil servants. Seven special stations for Hospital Authority staff saw 631 voters, and stations for ethnic minorities had seven voters.
