KOTA BAHARU, Feb 8 (Bernama) -- The Election Commission (EC) has reminded
opposition leaders not to become overzealous in inviting foreign observers to
monitor the 13th general election.
Its deputy chairman Datuk Wira Wan Ahmad Wan Omar said these observers who
may be representing certain non-governmental organisations, would have no
understanding of the country''s election laws and political culture as well as
the sensitivities among the people.
"They come a week before the election and make assumptions and conclusions
about the country''s election process.
"Is this fair to the people of Malaysia? No, it''s definitely not," he told
reporters after briefing the state police as well as returning officers and
their deputies, here today.
Wan Ahmad said observers from within the country would have a better view of
the process as they understand the country''s election laws, the sensitivities of
the people and have an interest in the election because they are the people of
the country.
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EC-OBSERVERS 2 KOTA BAHARU
"Don''t be overzealous in wanting to invite foreign observers. Our own people
would make a better observer," he said, pointing out that the EC would look into
the matter and decide on who in the country could be appointed to play that
role.
He pointed out that the election system and process in Malaysia suited the
country well, stressing that improvements were made to the process from one
election to another.
"These foreign observers would of course like to monitor our election
process, more so with the activities of political parties which have been
attracting attention abroad, like opposition leaders going abroad and giving
talks.
"It''s their right to do so but making disparaging remarks about our election
process, I think, is unfair to the people and the EC.
"What interests have these foreign observers had in our country? If the
country is in chaos, they will just observe from outside. It''s the people who
are bearing the consequences," he said.
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EC-OBSERVERS 3 (LAST) KOTA BAHARU
Wan Ahmad added that the candidates'' representatives at polling centres were
the most effective election observers because they are monitoring the process on
behalf of the candidates.
Meanwhile, he said, an election observer team would be formed in each state
constituency nationwide, except for in Sarawak, which would be appointed
according to parliamentary constituencies.
The team comprises EC officers, police, officers of local authorities and
candidates'' representatives.
-- BERNAMA
BD NAK JS
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