Need sincerity to form select committee on electoral process

DAP National Deputy Chairman and MP for Kepong Dr Tan Seng Giaw stresses the need for the show of sincerity in the formation of a parliamentary select committee to discuss electoral reform in Malaysia.

There must be meaningful terms of reference, practical time limit and fair representations in the committee.

On 18.8.2011, Dr Tan comments on the Cabinet decision to set up a Parliamentary Select Committee to study the electoral process.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz says the Cabinet agrees to have the motion on the proposed Parliamentary Select Committee to be tabled at the parliamentary meeting in October, 2011.

Apparently, the committee consists of nine parliamentarians, five from Barisan Nasional, three from the Opposition and an independent. This ensures that BN's decision carries the day. Thus, the representation in the committee has already given rise to controversy.

Nazri talks about a fair and just general election, including promulgationg new laws. But, he must consider seriously the need for sincerity in the formation of such a select committee. To make sure that the Government is serious, electoral reform must take place before the next general election.

Let us have meaningful terms of reference on the setting up of the committee, the practical time limit, the scope of inquiry and the promulgation of laws on general election.

Tan Seng Giaw