Kota Kinabalu: Electoral reform group Bersih has flagged several alleged instances of vote-buying and the misuse of government machinery in the Sabah state election campaign.
Bersih said several parties were found to have organised banquets, given out gifts and household items, and offered to refuel motorcycles for free.
It also found instances where both the federal and caretaker state governments used their machinery and events for political purposes.
This included the distribution of aid by government agencies, the handover of land grants to applicants, the announcement of government allocations, and the use of government programmes to showcase specific election candidates.
“Such acts not only create unfair advantages for the ruling parties, but also blur the line between the government’s businesses and party campaigns,” Bersih said in a statement.
The group said it also received reports of clear vote-buying attempts in which voters were offered cash or other incentives in exchange for political support.
These practices, it said, not only breached election laws but also insulted the dignity of voters.
Bersih called for the Election Offences Act 1954 to be amended so that the Election Commission would be empowered to fine candidates who engaged in money politics.
“We appeal to Sabahan voters to change this political culture by rejecting money politics and abuse of power in this state election.”
Last week, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the provision of government vehicles and a security detail for prime ministers, even when attending party events, was stipulated in law.
This came after PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari asked about the prime minister’s use of government vehicles while wearing the Pakatan Harapan uniform when attending events in Sabah.
