Macao’s Electoral Affairs Commission for the Legislative Assembly Election has announced that 12 candidates from two electoral lists have been disqualified from the upcoming election. The commission cited failure to uphold the Basic Law and to bear allegiance to the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) as reasons for their ineligibility.
At a press conference on Tuesday, commission chairman Seng Ioi Man stated that the decision was made in accordance with the Electoral Law for the Legislative Assembly and was based on opinions provided by the Macao SAR Committee for Safeguarding National Security.
The Electoral Law for the Legislative Assembly was amended in 2024 to enhance the candidate vetting mechanism and reinforce the principle of “patriots administering Macao.” Under the revised law, the Committee for Safeguarding National Security determines whether candidates uphold the Basic Law and bear allegiance to the Macao SAR. The committee’s binding review opinions are not subject to objections or judicial appeal.
Seng noted that all other candidate lists and individuals met the eligibility requirements and have been accepted by the commission. He emphasized that the review process was legally grounded and that the commission respects and supports the committee’s judgment.
The election for Macao SAR’s eighth Legislative Assembly is scheduled for September 14. A total of 14 members will be elected by direct vote, while 12 will be chosen through indirect means.
Seng affirmed that the commission will continue to carry out its duties in strict accordance with the law, ensuring a lawful and orderly election process.
