Comelec sees low turnout in Marawi

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) expects a “lower than usual” voter turnout when village and youth council elections are held in Marawi City next month.

“It is almost sure that it will be lower than usual because of the recent troubles,” said Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez in an interview with reporters.

The Comelec has set the elections in Marawi on Sept. 22. Elections on May 14 were postponed in Marawi because of the war on Islamic State.

Jimenez said holding elections in Marawi would not be easy.

“Will it be difficult for the people to go back to Marawi to vote from wherever they are now?” Jimenez said. “They may find it hard to find means of transportation.”

“It could be a real challenge, especially for those still staying in evacuation centers,” Jimenez added. “But there’s nothing we can do about that. The elections will be held within the territorial jurisdiction of Marawi.” —Tina G. Santos