Skopje, 24 April 2024 (MIA) — Election Day is proceeding peacefully and 3.85 percent of the country's voters have cast their ballots by 9 am, according to the State Election Commission.

No irregularities have been reported at polling stations, SEC president Aleksandar Dashtevski told the election commission's first press conference on voter turnout during the presidential election.

The turnout rate is based on figures received from 832 polling stations, where 15,487 citizens of voting age voted by 9 am.

According to Dashtevski, there were a few problems of a technical nature reported that are being resolved. The SEC also received 12 complaints about people's voting rights, which are being processed.

"By 9 am, we received voting data from a total of 832 polling stations," Dashtevski said. 

"The turnout rate, according to the data, is 3.85 percent. Out of a total of 402,748 voters at these polling stations, 15,487 have voted. So far, no major irregularities have been reported," he added.

He said 915 domestic and 544 international observers were monitoring the presidential election and 58 foreign journalists were covering it. 

Members of the public may ask questions or report irregularities to the SEC by calling the 0800 555 44 toll-free phone number. Those with hearing and speech impairments can make a video call to the SEC at 076 488 360, Dashtevski said.

The next SEC press conference is scheduled for 1:30 pm. mr/