PETALING JAYA: Politicians and parties involved in manipulative and graft-related activities towards voters in the six state elections not only violate election laws but also undermine the democratic principles of the country, says a coalition of NGOs.
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Rasuah Busters and 23 other coalition partners said political leaders must take responsibility to adhere to campaigning rules following the ongoing elections in Negri Sembilan, Selangor, Penang, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu.
“Thorough and transparent investigations should be conducted on any parties found to have violated provisions outlined in the Election Offences Act 1954 or any other written law in Malaysia.
“Political parties and candidates are urged to engage in healthy competition, prioritising the resolution of long-term socio-economic issues currently faced by the people.
“Rather than making promises and claims as well as putting their party’s interest above all else which can lead to their leadership credibility being diminished,” it said in a statement on Monday (July 31).
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The anti-graft group also reiterated its call that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) must be independent and free to exercise its function without any interference from the executive body.
“The coalition reiterates the call for institutional reforms promptly, that MACC be placed under the purview of Parliament,” it said.
The coalition also called for voters to fulfil their democratic duty by participating in the electoral process and making their choices fairly, critically, and vigilantly when casting their ballots in the state elections on Aug 12.
– The Star