VIENTIANE, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- Preparations are underway for the election of members of the Lao National Assembly's 10th legislature and the fifth Provincial People's Councils, with nationwide campaigning continuing to ensure a smooth, transparent, and lawful electoral process ahead of polling day.
Candidate campaigning is continuing nationwide to provide voters with comprehensive information ahead of polling day on Feb. 22. The campaign seeks to raise voter awareness and encourage thoughtful participation in the electoral process, promoting the selection of qualified candidates who can genuinely represent people of all ethnic groups and safeguard the rights and interests of the population.
Authorities are urging all eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights on election day.
As part of efforts to ensure a smooth electoral process, officials reaffirmed their commitment to maximizing voter participation, strictly adhering to election laws, maintaining comprehensive security, promoting transparency, and providing timely budget support for election operations.
During a visit to Vientiane province on Monday to oversee security preparations for the elections, Lao Minister of Public Security Vanthong Kongmany urged relevant sectors to strengthen coordination, work closely with village-level security forces, reinforce personnel deployment in sensitive areas, and remain prepared to respond to any incidents. He also emphasized the importance of fire prevention, traffic management, and strict discipline among civil servants and security personnel to ensure a safe and orderly election.
The Lao National Election Committee has announced 243 candidates for the 10th National Assembly, including 66 women, representing 27 percent of the total. A total of 175 members will be elected to the legislature.
The elections are among the most important events in the country's political calendar, giving citizens a direct role in shaping national development. ■