The Elections Department (ELD) yesterday issued a reminder to the public not to post election advertising on any platform, online or offline, on Cooling-Off Day and Polling Day.

Bukit Batok residents head to the polls today, with yesterday designated as Cooling-Off Day.

However, “several articles” were posted online regarding the by-election, the ELD said.

“These articles — intended to enhance the standing of, or promote the electoral success for, a candidate or party — are tantamount to election advertising as defined under Section 2 of the Parliamentary Elections Act,” said the ELD.

When contacted, the ELD declined to name the articles.

Putting up election advertising on any platform on Cooling-Off Day and Polling Day may give rise to an offence under Section 78B(1) of the Parliamentary Elections Act, the ELD said.

Any person who commits such an offence shall be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding S$1,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months, or both.