Stop the culture of defections

The recently concluded general elections brought about a historical transformation for Malaysia as well as for the region. It marked the first peaceful transition of power from the monopoly of the hitherto ruling party since Independence.

But barely a day after the new prime minister was sworn in, many are flabbergasted by the attempted defections of MPs and state assembly members.

Gabungan Bertindak Malaysia (GBM) views this phenomenon of political defections with much concern and apprehension.

The rakyat had given Pakatan Harapan (PH) the mandate to rule because they wanted a clean break from the past. GBM considers the unconditional acceptance of these defecting MPs and Aduns to PH ranks as a betrayal of the rakyat’s trust.

GBM strongly objects to this culture of party-hopping because we envisage a competitive multi-party competition in future elections rather than a monopoly by a single coalition. The probable decimation of Barisan Nasional (BN) would only result in a new opposition that is more extreme in its politics and ideologies.

We look forward to a strong and credible opposition, which would keep a check on the political process and the rule of law.

GBM also wishes to draw to the attention of the PH state and national leadership, that those who voted for the BN should also have rights to representation. The new administration should not disenfranchise these voters by accepting defections from BN or by denying funding to the BN constituencies.

GBM urges the PH leadership to take heed of the rakyat’s concern iver this unhealthy culture of defections. We look forward to the new political stewardship of PH protecting the authentic values and spirit of democracy so that these can flourish in Malaysia.

Released by the following GBM member organisations:

• Anak Muda Sarawak (AMS)
• Engage
• Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall（KLSCAH
• LLG Cultural Development Centre (LLG)
• Merdeka University Berhad (MUB)
• Muslim Professional Forum (MPF)
• Negeri Sembilan Chinese Assembly Hall (NSCAH)
• Partners in Community Organising (Pacos)
• Persatuan Aliran Kesedaran Negara (Aliran)
• Persatuan Masyarakat Selangor dan Wilayah Persekutuan (Permas)
• Pertubuhan Ikram Malaysia (Ikram)
• Pusat Komas (Komas)
• Tamil Foundation (TF)
• Tindak Malaysia (TM)
• Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia (SABM)
• Suara Rakyat Malaysia (Suaram)
• United Chinese School Alumni Associations of Malaysia (UCSAAM)

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.

AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama

1. Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
2. Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
3. Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
4. Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
5. Lawan rasuah dan kronisme

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