EC must act against Harapan's blatant abuse of the law and ethics

Whereas DAP have publicly denounced Bersatu advocacy to win “by hook or crook”, it is pathetic that their actions are worse than Bersatu vice-president Rashid’s statement.

DAP, after capturing Putrajaya, had openly and blatantly disregarded all virtues, rules and ethics they had previously extolled from threatening Orang Asli Tok Batins, handing out “petrol money” to using government vehicles to campaign.

The blatant use or abuse of official resources, whereby a four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle belonging to the Pahang Forestry Department was used for campaigning purposes is the latest.

Even worse, the Harapan flag is proudly emblazoned there - revealing the ruling coalition's hypocritical nature and double standards and disregard for law and order.

The authorities must take immediate and strict actions against such offenders to ensure that such practices do not escalate in New Malaysia.

As the Election Commission (EC) has issued a press statement outlining the various offences that have been committed under the law, we urge EC to expedite investigations and action against Harapan for misusing government assets in the campaign trail.

This is the time for EC chairman Azhar Azizan Harun, to uphold the independence of EC by acting without fear or favour. 

Malaysians had applauded Azhar's appointment to cleanse the purported biasedness of the previous government. Now, it is time for him to demonstrate non-partisanship by upholding and enforcing the laws towards a development of a mature democratic process.

Likewise, MCA applauds the EC chairman for his reminder that race and religious sensitivities should not be exploited by politicians to garner votes. 

It would be better if SPR can outline the dos and don’ts to educate “less aware” politicians that they may have trespass or commit an election offence by resorting to racial and religious provocations of a sensitive nature.

New Malaysia has started with a boom. Malaysians have high expectations of legal and ethical practices towards a virtuous law abiding society. 

The recent incidents and ugliness displayed recently in the Cameron Highland by-election is a direct contrast of the virtues and values extol by New Malaysia. They must be condemned and exemplary actions must be immediately taken by the relevant authorities.

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Ti Lian Ker is MCA vice-president. - Mkini