KUALA LUMPUR – The Election Commission (EC), as a body that is appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, must maintain its impartiality and neutrality, while behaving with utmost transparency when conducting elections, says Perak ruler Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah.
The Sultan said that these conducts have a strong impact on voter confidence and the body’s integrity should never come into question.
“The EC is the arbitrator, managing the rivalry between candidates and among political parties during a general election.
“Therefore, the EC must remain impartial – not only be impartial but must be seen to be impartial,” he said in his speech at the launch of a book titled ‘Pilihan Raya Demokrasi Malaysia: Tanding, Pilih, Menang dan Tadbir’ (Malaysian Democratic Elections: Contest, Vote, Win and Administer) at The Majestic Hotel here.
“Without fear or favour, the EC is cloaked with the duty of care and power to ensure that the elections are conducted freely and fairly; that the voting be carried out efficiently, the people be allowed to vote without fear or pressure, without duress, with the secrecy of their ballot papers guaranteed,” said Sultan Nazrin.
Safeguard public facilities, resources from misuse
In his speech, Sultan Nazrin also stressed that under the principle of free and fair elections, a clear demarcation must be drawn to separate the government and political parties, even if those parties have been entrusted to lead the administration.
Such a separation will assure that public facilities and resources are not misused and that a “free and fair” election will be able to safeguard the people’s right to justice and secret ballot.
The ruler also pointed out that a free and fair election should ensure that all candidates and parties are treated equitably, guided by the rule of law on a level playing field.
“To ensure an election that is free and fair, poll workers must assume the role of facilitator, assisting candidates who wish to contest and voters who want to vote, starting with simplifying the process and procedures, right until the date, place and time of the election are determined.
“An election conducted in this manner will boost voter confidence that will be translated into higher voter turnout.
“A free and fair election is the gauge on the level of authenticity and a yardstick to measure the democratic spirit of a country,” the Sultan said, adding that it is a reflection on the mentality, intellect and maturity of the people, the supremacy of their constitution and their rule of law.
The EC’s impartiality has come under scrutiny of late, the latest being in the Johor election, when several polling centres were closed as early as 11am. – The Vibes, March 21, 2022
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