Do away with gimmicks
Parties should make nominations simple, says Umno council member

Wednesday, February 1, 2012 - 21:55

by Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani

Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah Umno supreme council member

PETALING JAYA: While politicians are against curbing the number of nomination day supporters, Umno supreme council member Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah feels the nation must aspire to become an advanced democracy in its electoral process.

The deputy higher education minister said the procession of party members at nomination centres was an unnecessary hassle.

“I am sure the public will welcome this because you can stand and compete, but don’t let it cause trouble to residents. It would also help lessen tensions between candidates and political parties competing for the seat.”

He said the Election Commission (EC) must start re-examining the electoral process.

“I am all for no procession. I think we should make nomination of candidates easier and less hassle. It is also about time we start restricting the use of posters and banners during campaigning.

“We should look at what advanced democracies are doing. They have nominations, but they don’t have the procession and posters plastered everywhere.”

Saifuddin said political parties could have posters promoting candidates within their headquarters, saying banners and placards should be banned.

“We no longer need posters because, unlike in the past, candidates can use the media to promote themselves, such as television, newspaper, and new media. I think we should encourage debate between candidates instead of having poster wars.”

He said the EC must, however, consult relevant stakeholders first before deciding. “What the EC should do now is invite political parties and have a discussion.

All parties involved should arrive at an amicable solution to make our election more healthier and simple.

“To me, it is simple. Our benchmark must always be against advance democracy. Let’s make election more of a substance rather than of rhetorics and gimmicks.”

THE TRUTH ALWAYS HURTS!