YSK Chief Özerdağ: Election Results to Be Published via Our Own System

Speaking on BRT’s Manşet + programme, Özerdağ outlined the measures taken to ensure that the election is conducted safely, fairly, and smoothly.

He said all ballot officers have been trained by district election boards, security measures have been implemented, and the electoral roll has been updated to enable TRNC citizens living abroad to vote. “We are fully prepared for the election,” he stated.

Addressing allegations about election security, Özerdağ clarified that since 2018, Near East University has not been involved in any elections or YSK operations. He emphasised that election results are processed and published exclusively by YSK’s own technical team and software.

Özerdağ also said polling station presidents and members have received detailed training and that police officers will be present at polling areas to maintain order. Representatives of all political parties and candidates will be allowed to observe the process at polling stations, ensuring transparency.

He reminded voters to bring both their ID card and voter card when casting their ballot and to make sure their voting slip is unmarked and bears two official stamps on the back. Mobile phones must be handed to the polling station committee during voting.

Regarding overseas voters, Özerdağ noted that TRNC citizens must be registered on the electoral roll to vote, warning that those without proof of residence in a specific district may face difficulties.

Commenting on voter turnout, he said participation in previous elections was around 60 percent and expressed hope for a higher turnout this time. “This is an important election. We urge citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote so that the elected president assumes office with strong public support,” he said.

Özerdağ noted that there had been no major breaches of campaign rules, though minor violations had been identified and dealt with. He reminded that the campaign ban will take effect at 6 p.m. on October 18 and urged candidates and supporters to be especially cautious on social media.

Voting will take place between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on October 19, with unofficial results expected around 8 p.m., he added. If the election goes to a second round, a new timetable will be announced.

Özerdağ concluded by wishing all candidates success and expressed his hope that the election would proceed fairly and peacefully.