Election watchdog calls for stronger EC enforcement powers

 

Tindak Malaysia said there is a need to review and reform the Election Offences Act 1954 in view of the rapid changes in the political landscape and evolving public expectations.

PETALING JAYA: 

An election watchdog has called for a comprehensive review and reform of the Election Offences Act 1954, including allowing the Election Commission to issue fines or compounds for misconduct.

Tindak Malaysia said the rapid changes in the political landscape and evolving public expectations warrant the Act to be updated to remain effective and relevant.

We propose allowing the EC to issue fines and compounds for electoral offences punishable by amounts not exceeding RM5,000,

 its director, Danesh Prakash Chacko, said in a statement.

He said this would enhance the commission’s enforcement powers.

Tindak Malaysia also proposed the lowering of age for election, polling and counting agents in line with the commitment to allowing youths to take part in the electoral process.

Chacko said the cap on expenses incurred by candidates and political parties in their campaigns should be limited to RM5 and RM10 per voter, respectively.

While our proposals include political party expense limits, we understand that there are ongoing efforts by the current government to legislate a political financing bill. We will maintain the call of having a law governing political financing in Malaysia,

 he said.

Chacko proposed for the EC to be empowered to audit election expenses incurred by both political parties and their candidates.

The candidate’s election expenses must be allowed to be thoroughly audited to prevent electoral malpractices and imbalances in terms of spending power between political candidates,

 he said.

He said the EC should also be given the authority to oversee and approve voter transportation arrangements to ensure that all eligible voters, especially those in remote or underserved areas, can exercise their right to vote without logistical hindrances.

Properly managed voter transportation, he said, can significantly increase voter turnout and enhance the inclusivity of the electoral process.

Chacko said employees should be given leeway by their employers to take part in election duties.

By supporting employees who serve in election-related roles, employers contribute to the smooth operation of elections and uphold democratic values,

 he said. - FMT