vii. Closing and counting of votes process a) Heads of Polling Centres and EC officers need to inform and explain the presence of observers to the Vote Counting Agents during the counting process to avoid any doubts or uncertainty. b) A task rotation system should be implemented to avoid Clerks suffering from fatigue and human errors being committed, such as putting ballot papers in the wrong party’s box. viii. Monitoring elections a) b) c) SUHAKAM recommends that monitoring should be without prior notice of the locations it will be observing. Photography ought to be allowed. It is suggested that the EC and Observers have a spokesperson to whom the media can refer for accurate reporting. THE WAY FORWARD Respect for human rights and the rule of law must be the bedrock of a thriving and working democracy. This requires respect for pluralism of ideas, vibrant civil societies, independent CSOs and free media, a robust private sector and effective checks and balances to power. In this regard, SUHAKAM will continue with its mandate to advise, monitor and work alongside the government to act in a human rights compliant manner. Towards this end, the Sabah Office will continue to find ways to enhance cooperation with the public sector, the private sector, CSOs and all members of the society, including the media, to promote and protect human rights in the state. 82 ANNUAL REPORT 2020