No hope for reforms, but Bersih says no protest yet

Government inaction, supposed delay tactics by the Election Commission (EC), lack of development in inviting foreign observers and escalating political violence have all but convinced Bersih 2.0 that no electoral reform will take place soon.

"Can we expect reforms before GE13? No" said Bersih co-chairperson Ambiga Sreenevasan at a press conference in Kuala Lumpur today.

However the electoral reform group will not take to the streets again as yet, Ambiga said.

Bersih will instead work on its ongoing campaigns - JomPantau to train citizens as electoral observers, and Jom100 to ensure as many voters as possible cast their ballot to nullify any electoral hanky-panky.

Pressed further, she said the committee would update the media if there were any changes.

"For the moment, it is this. We will tell you as it moves along."

Ambiga explained that the Bersih steering committee would meet on a regular basis as GE13 loomed and would decide - on a when and is basis - as the situation was like a "moveable feast".

[More to follow]