I do not have confidence in the Malaysian electoral system. I’m not
confident that my vote will count, and that my voice will be heard. In a
genuine, open democracy, each vote has equal value – every vote counts.
There are currently 42,051 known dubious names in the electoral roll
and further irregularities: 79,098 voters are registered at a mere 354
addresses.
Although relatively small given the Malaysian voting age population,
these numbers can make a huge difference in the outcome of elections.
Marginal seats can swing very easily with small numbers of votes.
The Election Commission’s response to these questionable electoral
roll figures has been unimpressive. The commission’s chief reportedly
said that his ‘hands were tied’ on cleaning up the electoral roll, and
downplayed the importance of an accurate electoral roll.
For a democracy to function effectively there must be absolute faith
in the electoral system, so that citizens will exercise their right to
vote and make their voice heard.
One way of ensuring confidence in the electoral system is engaging independent international observers to monitor the elections.
Malaysian officials have previously observed elections in Thailand
and other countries, demonstrating that the Malaysian government
endorses this practice.
However the report of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Electoral
Reform made no mention of inviting international observers for the
upcoming 13th General Elections.
This is why I will join Bersih 3.0’s Duduk Bantah on April 28. Besih
3.0 demands a cleaned up electoral roll and the engagement of
independent international election observers.
This must be done before the 13th General Election to send a clear
message that Malaysia respects its citizens and is serious about
ensuring a clean and accountable electoral system.
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