Political parties in Arakan State are unable to start canvassing due to the stay-at-home notice imposed in all townships in Arakan State for the prevention and control of COVID-19, said U Aung Mya Kyaw, Secretary of the Arakan National Party (ANP).

“The government has issued the orders and directives which bar us from doing canvassing in the townships where the stay-at-home notice is imposed. Mass gatherings are not allowed,” reported ANP’s U Aung Mya Kyaw. 

He added “The parties find it difficult to do door-to-door canvassing due to the stay-at-home notice even though the UEC authorized canvassing to commence from 8 September. “

According to the statement by the Ministry of Health and Sports on September 7, the canvassing is banned in the regions, states, townships, wards and villages where the stay-at-home notice is imposed.

U Kyaw Zaw Oo, Spokesperson of the Arakan Front Party said: “The parties shall do the canvassing in conformity with the directives issued by the Ministry of Health and Sports. We can do anything. We will have to erect vinyl and use online media for canvassing in the townships with the stay-at-home rules.”

The parties all complained that COVID-19 restrictions made canvassing extremely difficult given the poor quality of internet connections in many townships in Arakan State.  

The Union Election Commission (UEC) has announced a 60-day election campaign period from September 8 to November 6.