PDF Copy: FAQS on BERSIH 3.0 English April 2012
BM Version
FAQS on BERSIH 3.0
1). Do we really need Bersih 3?
Yes we do. There has been no commitment to reform before GE13. Instead we are continuously uncovering evidence of irregularities which are not being addressed.
2). Why such a rush to have it on 28 April 2012?
All indications are that the ruling party is rushing to hold the elections. If the government is genuine in implementing reform, they have plenty of time to do it as they have until June 2013 to hold GE13. We have no choice but to act quickly if we want to have any hope of reform before GE 13.
3). Are opposition political parties hijacking Bersih?
Bersih is led by civil society with endorsements from 84 NGOs. This is an NGO movement and no political party can hijack it. Members of ALL political parties are invited to participate and should participate as citizens.
4). Do you agree with anything in the PSC report?
Yes. We have outlined some of the good points in our detailed response to the 22 recommendations . Most importantly, not even one recommendation is categorically scheduled to take place before GE 13. The key demands of CLEAN ELECTORAL ROLLS and REFORM OF THE POSTAL BALLOT have not been meaningfully met. The need to STOP CORRUPTION AND DIRTY POLITICS in relation to electoral offences and standards of conduct were not even mentioned by the PSC.
5). Is the recommendation in relation to free and fair access to media a good one?
Yes it is. However it is limited as it deals with access to media during the campaign period only. But there is nothing stopping the government from immediately ensuring free and fair access to the media if they are sincere in their commitment to reform, as they have said they are.
6). Were there any good reasons why overseas voters are not allowed to vote as absentee voters?
NO and it is simply not acceptable that the PSC have recommended a further study on this. Civil Society group have submitted detailed proposals as to how voting for overseas Malaysians may be carried out. This means that an estimated 1 to 2 million overseas Malaysians will be disenfranchised. They should JUST IMPLEMENT this demand.
7). Why is BERSIH 3.0 nationwide?
We will see Malaysians everywhere – national and global, take ownership of their right to free and fair elections and the democratic processes in the country. This is our Malaysia. We want to make it better.
8). Why is Himpunan Hijau joining Bersih 3.0?
Bersih 3.0 is a platform for all Malaysians to demand free and fair elections. Himpunan Hijau believes that without clean elections we cannot have a clean environment. We welcome their support.
9). Why are you asking for the members of the Election Commission (EC) to resign?
The EC has been and is undermining the integrity of the electoral process. They have failed in their constitutional duty to the rakyat. The resignation of the commissioners will be the first step towards genuine reform.
10). Why do we need international observers for the next General Elections?
International election observation can promote public confidence and their presence may deter and expose irregularities and fraud. International election monitoring has become widely accepted around the world and plays an important role in providing accurate and impartial assessments about the integrity of the electoral processes in a democratic polity.