(1) The Election Officer shall commence counting of votes at the place, date and time specified in the notice published in accordance with Section 50 of the Act in the name of the candidate, election representative or counting representative present. However, it shall not be considered that the commencement of counting of votes has been hindered due to the absence of candidates, election representatives or counting representatives.
(2) The Election Officer shall keep a certificate of commencement of counting of votes.
(3) The Election Officer shall immediately inform the Commission that the counting of votes has begun.