Executive Council convenor Regina Ip said on Thursday that the upcoming Legislative Council race will be highly competitive, with a diverse field of newcomers and incumbents seeking re-election.

Speaking to RTHK on the final day of nominations, she noted there are at least five candidates in each of the 10 geographical constituencies.

"It is important to bring in new blood to the Legislative Council...Speaking as a voter myself, I will vote for newcomers who are of good quality, as well as serving members who can bring experience and continuity to the Legislative Council," she said.

Ip noted that many of the registered candidates are district councillors and said it was normal for them to see Legco as a step up. While they are well equipped to handle district affairs and community outreach, she said that they will need to learn more about lawmaking and how to scrutinise government spending if elected.

She added that it is difficult to predict voter turnout and suggested introducing early voting in future elections for on-duty civil servants and people with disabilities, allowing them to cast their ballots a day before the official polling day.

"Generally, I think people everywhere are not that interested in voting for elected offices, unless there are extremely important issues at stake, or when they see the stars are running. It's the same everywhere," she said.

"Because our society has returned to stability and harmony, and there are not many controversial issues, so it is harder to turn out the voters in the present state."

Authorities have so far received 161 nominations across the geographical, functional, and election committee constituencies.