VIDEOS and pictures of people dancing, singing, eating, and drinking in places that look like longhouses have been circulating on social media and messaging platforms.
Some even have scenes of several politicians allegedly distributing financial aid, food, and drinks to longhouse residents. The people were seen with shirts bearing the logo of political parties, regardless of their divide.
Some were wearing masks, some were not, and some had masks dangling on their chins.
The footage was said to be taken in a constituency in northern Sarawak, and dates indicate that they were recent.
There are allegations that such scenes are common in many rural localities across the state.
During my 25 years as a reporter in Sarawak, I have seen such scenes during pre-election, campaign period, and post-election victory celebrations.
Under normal circumstances, such activities are considered part and parcel of Sarawak politics.
Public elections, whether it’s for state or parliamentary seats, are times where voters will get plenty of “generous attention” from politicians who expect votes in return.
But, this 12th state election that is hanging over our heads is certainly not during “normal” times.
Sarawak is facing a serious threat as the Delta strain continues to spread.
However, desperation to secure votes and return to power have seen certain politicians unbothered about the Covid-19 health peril.
Money and goods are still being used as tools to secure voters’ favour – not just by the powerful in the ruling seat, but a party in the opposition circles is also supposedly going around doing the same.
Pakatan Harapan chief Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday brought up money politics during the launch of the coalition’s election machinery in Kuching and Miri.
He urged the rakyat to not be induced by any election enticement that will come their way.
“We worry about inducements of money, things, and positions.”
The countdown started on November 3 when the state assembly was dissolved, giving the Election Commission 60 days from then to hold the polls.
There are 82 state constituencies up for grabs – half of them covering rural areas, with the rest considered semi rural and urban ones.
Expect more goodies being pumped into rural settlements in the coming weeks, as politicians ramp up their election machinery ahead of nomination day and polling day.
In the meantime, cash, feasting, drinking, dancing, singing, and the coronavirus will surely become a deadly cocktail. – The Vibes, November 21, 2021
Stephen Then is a reporter with The Vibes based in Sarawak
