Bersih Sarawak Criticizes DUN Speaker's Remarks on EC Neutrality
The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) Sarawak has expressed strong concern over comments made by State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar regarding the Election Commission (EC). Asfia stated that the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition lacks representation in the EC and urged the commission to expedite constituency redelineation for the upcoming state election. Bersih Sarawak described these remarks as baffling and potentially damaging to the EC's integrity. The civil society organization emphasized that the EC must remain independent and free from political influence, citing Article 114(2) of the Federal Constitution, which mandates appointments that secure public confidence through neutrality. Bersih argued that any affiliation with political parties should disqualify candidates from serving as commissioners. Furthermore, the group warned that such statements could undermine public trust in the electoral management body. Bersih reiterated its long-standing proposal for electoral reforms, including vetting EC member nominations through a Parliamentary Select Committee. Meanwhile, Asfia indicated that the state election would likely proceed with the existing 82-seat structure due to uncertainties surrounding the proposed expansion to 99 seats.
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Bersih Sarawak Criticizes DUN Speaker's Remarks on EC Neutrality
The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) Sarawak has expressed strong concern over comments made by State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar regarding the Election Commission (EC). Asfia stated that the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition lacks representation in the EC and urged the commission to expedite constituency redelineation for the upcoming state election. Bersih Sarawak described these remarks as baffling and potentially damaging to the EC's integrity. The civil society organization emphasized that the EC must remain independent and free from political influence, citing Article 114(2) of the Federal Constitution, which mandates appointments that secure public confidence through neutrality. Bersih argued that any affiliation with political parties should disqualify candidates from serving as commissioners. Furthermore, the group warned that such statements could undermine public trust in the electoral management body. Bersih reiterated its long-standing proposal for electoral reforms, including vetting EC member nominations through a Parliamentary Select Committee. Meanwhile, Asfia indicated that the state election would likely proceed with the existing 82-seat structure due to uncertainties surrounding the proposed expansion to 99 seats.
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