MCA Youth has applauded Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s move to warn of disciplinary action against ministers, civil servants or government agencies found using government resources during election campaigns.

However, its secretary-general Saw Yee Fung said this ban should not only apply after nomination day but also upon the vacancy of a seat to prevent ruling state or federal governments from exploiting any existing loopholes.

She said in view of Anwar’s decision, as mentioned in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday (July 9), the Election Commission (EC) must now cooperate and rigorously enforce this measure, enhancing monitoring to ensure an even playing field during any elections.

“Implementing this rule only post-nomination is inadequate,” Saw stressed, citing recent by-elections in Kuala Kubu Baharu (KKB) and Sungai Bakap as examples.

“Typically, from seat vacancy until the EC determines nomination and polling days, limiting campaigning to just two weeks post-nomination will legitimise incumbent authorities taking advantage of loopholes and distributing ‘election candies’ beforehand.”

To recap, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming had unveiled an allocation of RM5.21 mil for Hulu Selangor residents ahead of the KKB by-election on April 19, and had announced RM17.93 mil in allocations for Seberang Perai ahead of the Sungai Bakap polls on June 11.

“Sincere reform from the prime minister should include admonishing Nga’s actions and prohibiting all allocations or new official activities from the seat vacancy onwards,” Saw further pointed out.

“Ministerial ‘candies’ can wait until after the by-elections and need not be rushed or flaunted in constituencies.

“We urge the prime minister to demonstrate genuine reform efforts and uphold the unity government’s commitment to reform, avoiding contradictions between public statements and allowing ministers to distribute ‘candies’ when seats fall vacant.” - July 11, 2024

https://focusmalaysia.my/mca-youth-consistent-enforcement-crucial-in-use-of-govt-machinery-during-elections/