Representatives of Macau’s six concessionaires and the Macau Gaming Information Association (MGIA) have been warned to remain neutral during September’s 2017 Legislative Assembly Election during a meeting between the various parties this week.
It follows new regulations, approved last year, stating that Macau casino operators must not interfere with the result of the elections in any way, including influencing staff or taking part in electoral campaigning.
The Electoral Affairs Commission (CAEAL) raised the issue in early May but this week’s meeting was the first time it had been openly discussed by all relevant parties, including junket representatives, all six casino operators as well as the Commission Against Corruption (CCAC) and the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ).
As reported by The Macau Daily Times, operators were reminded by CAEAL Chairman Tony Hio Fung that they cannot request their employees sign lists in support of nominated lawmakers endorsed by gaming operators and must avoid posting promotional materials inside their properties.
“Gaming operators cannot interfere in the election through their names or by means of their resources as to aid or compromise some candidates,” said CCAC commissioner André Cheong.
“Workers on-duty in the casinos are also restricted by the regulations … they cannot allow any candidate list to reap benefits or be compromised.”
Mr Cheong said that the CCAC was in the process of inspecting locations across Macau for any violations, including casinos and VIP rooms.
Regarding possible conflicts of interest, Cheong stated that as long as they obey fairness obligations, “the law does not require the candidates to step down from their positions … the law does not require them to quit their jobs.”
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