KUANTAN: Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail has expressed his belief that local government elections could potentially create more harm than good in terms of services, finances, and political conflicts. The Umno vice-president also highlighted the possibility of increased racial tension if not properly managed.
Wan Rosdy emphasized the importance of prioritizing the best service for the people, stating, “The system that is used at the moment is still in accordance with the current requirements. The local council president or mayor is usually a senior civil servant, experienced and neutral in terms of political leanings.”
He further added, “Council members are also appointed by the state government and surely have the same wishes and agenda as the ruling government. If there is a fault, I think it is related to the professionalism and performance of the individual, not the fault of the existing system.”
Expressing concern about the potential negative impact of political influence on the system, Wan Rosdy said, “The focus will be more on politics than service to the people… that is happening nowadays. Those who are elected are sometimes based on popularity but they can’t do the job.”
Wan Rosdy also raised the issue of financial implications, stating that millions would be spent on local government elections. He pointed out, “For the Kemaman parliamentary by-election, RM3.5mil had to be spent to hold an election. This can happen in local government elections. The money can be better used for the welfare of the people.”
In advising all parties to be more cautious in giving opinions, especially on sensitive issues, Wan Rosdy highlighted his observation that some views are deliberately made to provoke, albeit hidden behind the name of democracy. He concluded, “True, it is a good democratic process. But remember, no matter how much we agree with this democratic system, let us not let ourselves be sacrificed solely ‘in the name of democracy’.”
