Review of electoral boundaries does not favour BN, say MPs





KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 (Bernama) -- The Election Commission review of electoral boundaries was done in accordance with the Federal Constitution and not to favour the Barisan Nasional, an MP told the Dewan Rakyat today.

Kuala Selangor BN MP Datuk Seri Irmohizam Ibrahim, speaking during the debate on the motion on the review, said Article 113 of the constitution provided for a review under stipulated conditions.

Rebutting an accusation by Selangor Menteri Besar and Gombak MP Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali that the EC was a tool of the BN, he said the opposition had strayed from the crux of the matter.

Irmohizam said a review of electoral boundaries was important to keep a check on the density of population in any constituency.

The last review was done almost 15 years ago, in 2003, and the demography had changed drastically since, he said, adding that a review was necessary to ensure that the people were taken care of in a holistic manner.

"It (a review) is also necessary to ensure effectiveness in the delivery of the services of elected representatives to their constituents. It helps the elected representatives to discharge their duties with greater focus without limitations," he said.

Datuk Liang Teck Meng (BN-Simpang Renggam) said the EC had discharged its constitutional responsibility in a fair, transparent and open manner.

He said the review of electoral boundaries reflected the spirit of democracy in the country with the involvement of all quarters.

"The EC recommendations are the outcome of public participation to ensure a transparent and fair election system and portray the latest socio-political situation to realise the right of ?one man, one vote'."

Liang criticised Mohamed Azmin for accusing the BN of 'stealing' the coming general election by manipulating the election system.

"It is a baseless and irresponsible accusation, aimed at inciting the people against the government."

"The history of elections in Malaysia proves that a review of electoral boundaries does not favour any political party, and is not even a factor that determines the victory or defeat of a party," he said.

Mohamed Azmin had alleged earlier that the EC had conspired with the ruling party to 'steal' the election from the Malaysian people.

-- BERNAMA