PETALING JAYA: A coalition of NGOs, including Rasuah Busters and 23 other partners, has accused politicians and parties involved in manipulative and corrupt activities in the six state elections of violating election laws and undermining the democratic principles of the country.
The coalition called on political leaders to take responsibility and adhere to campaigning rules during the ongoing elections in Negri Sembilan, Selangor, Penang, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu. They emphasized the need for thorough and transparent investigations into any parties found to have violated the provisions outlined in the Election Offences Act 1954 or any other written law in Malaysia.
The coalition urged political parties and candidates to engage in healthy competition and prioritize resolving long-term socio-economic issues faced by the people instead of making promises and claims that may undermine their leadership credibility or put their party’s interests above all else. They stressed the importance of focusing on the well-being of the people.
The anti-graft group also reiterated their call for the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to be independent and free from any interference. They emphasized the need for the MACC to exercise its function without any influence from the executive body. The coalition further called for institutional reforms, suggesting that the MACC be placed under the purview of Parliament.
Furthermore, the coalition appealed to voters to fulfill their democratic duty and participate in the electoral process by making their choices fairly, critically, and vigilantly when casting their ballots in the upcoming state elections on August 12.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
