Minister of National Defence, General Khamlieng Outhakaisone, addresses an election meeting in Bolikhamxay province on February 11.

Bolikhamxay ramps up security around Election Day

Bolikhamxay authorities are stepping up security and other preparations ahead of the February 22 Election Day, while members of the defence and public security forces are casting their votes early.
Minister of National Defence, General Khamlieng Outhakaisone, visited Bolikhamxay province on February 11 to monitor and publicise national defence and public security work linked to the election of members of the 10th National Assembly and 5th Provincial People’s Council.
The minister led a meeting that was attended by the Secretary of the Bolikhamxay Provincial Party Committee, Dr Sonethanou Thammavong, members of the National Election Committee, provincial and district election committees, and other individuals concerned, according to a report in the Lao People’s Army News.
Chairman of the Bolikhamxay Provincial People’s Council, Dr Souvanny Xaysana, reported on election preparations, including the organisation of polling booths by village authorities and military units serving as polling stations, and the registration of voters.
A total of 208 polling stations have been organised in the province’s seven districts. Pakxan district has 34, Bolikhan district has 45, Thaphabath district has 22, Pakkading district has 28, Viengthong district has 30, Khamkeuth district has 40, and Xaychamphon district has nine.
The province has a population of 328,779 people, including 3,942 people from other localities. A total of 183,250 people are eligible to vote.
Ten candidates in Bolikhamxay province are standing for election to the 10th National Assembly, including two women, while 49 candidates are competing for seats on the 5th Provincial People’s Council, including 15 women.
Dr Souvanny said adequate equipment, ballots, and candidate posters are available for both National Assembly and Provincial People’s Council voting and have been distributed to all districts. Campaign activities are also underway in districts and villages.
General Khamlieng praised the committees and other groups for their collaboration in preparations for Election Day and urged them to encourage everyone in the province to exercise their right to vote.
He called for a strong sense of responsibility on the part of all those involved in the elections, and for an increased number of patrols and security to prevent any kind of misconduct.
The minister also stressed the need for close coordination with government bodies at all levels to maintain stability and order throughout the election period.
General Khamlieng and his delegation gave additional equipment to the Bolikhamxay Provincial Military Command and inspected polling stations at the command to ensure voting proceeds smoothly and meets intended targets.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update February 16, 2026)