Penang Gerakan has proposed that when an elected people’s representative (MP or State Assemblyman) resigns from the political party he represented following a general elections, the seat is automatically vacant and a by-election should be held.

It is to ensure that the right to choose a government is in the hands of the people and not the MP or state assemblyman (or kataks) concerned. It is also to prevent a “forced takeover of power” of the federal government or state governments, as well as enhance political stability, after a general election is held.

However, the said MP or state assemblyman should be allowed to recontest the seat he vacated, to prove that he is still wanted by the people.

This proposal was among five points submitted by Gerakan during the Penang state-level public hearing on electoral reform at Dewan Sri Pinang today.

Another proposal asked the Election Commission to fix the expiry date of a general elections, so as to allow everyone enough time to prepare for the next general elections. It is also to ensure that the government can go all out to serve the people without having to worry about when the next general elections will be held.

Gerakan agreed in principle the use of indelible ink, provided it is fool proof. The party also urged for the automatic registration of people aged 21 years’ old as voters instead of 18 years’ old.

The party pointed out that indelible ink is removable as it is a matter of choice of solvent. Laser is one of the best technologies to delete.

The party also called for equal chance and equal use of government resources during campaignings .

Present to articulate on the issues were Baljit Singh, head of legal and human rights bureau, Dr Thor Teong Gee, head of publicity, information and communication bureau, and Dr Lim Boon Han, state vice-chairman.

by Editorial Desk
gerakan4u.com