Bersih Questions Selangor Government's Open House Event During Kuala Kubu Bharu By-Election

The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) has expressed concerns over the Selangor state government's plan to hold a Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house event in Kuala Kubu Bharu during the ongoing by-election campaign. Bersih argues that the event, which includes activities such as feasting and distributing 'duit raya' (festive cash gifts), might violate provisions under the Election Offences Act 1954 regarding bribery.

In a statement, Bersih called on the Selangor government to ensure that the open house event is not used as a platform for campaigning or introducing candidates from the ruling party. The electoral watchdog also reminded all political parties and by-election candidates to refrain from holding open house events during the election period, as such activities contravene the Election Offences Act 1954.

Why this matters: The concerns raised by Bersih highlight the importance of maintaining a level playing field and adhering to election laws during by-elections. The use of state resources or events for political gain can compromise the integrity of the electoral process.

The Kuala Kubu Bharu by-election was triggered by the death of its incumbent, DAP's Lee Kee Hiong, on March 21, 2024. The open house event is scheduled to be held on the same day as the nomination of candidates for the by-election. Bersih expressed concerns about the use of government resources during the by-election, which must comply with the '3C' principle of 'No conditions, no campaign, and no candidate'.

In its statement, Bersih emphasized that "the Selangor state government, led by the unity coalition, must ensure that the event is not used as a platform to introduce candidates from the coalition and that party flags and campaign materials are not present." The group has been actively campaigning for all parties to adhere to election rules in the Kuala Kubu Bharu by-election.

As the by-election campaign continues, the concerns raised by Bersih serve as a reminder for all political parties and candidates to prioritize fair and clean elections. The Selangor state government has yet to address Bersih's statement regarding the planned open house event in Kuala Kubu Bharu.

Key Takeaways

• Bersih raised concerns over Selangor's Raya open house event during KKB by-election.
• Bersih argues the event may violate election laws on bribery and campaigning.
• Bersih calls for the event to not be used for political gain or candidate introduction.
• Bersih reminds all parties to refrain from holding open house events during elections.
• Selangor government has not yet addressed Bersih's statement on the planned open house.