KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Bersih are calling on the public to help them as political observers to ensure a clean and fair GE14 on May 9.
Bersih 2.0 vice chairperson Beverly Joeman said these observers do not need to be official members of election watchdog Bersih 2.0.
"We need more people to help us monitor any wrongdoings from now until after polling day to reduce – if not prevent – abuse of any sort in this election," she said when launching their Election Observers Campaign here Monday (April 16).
She said observers of the campaign will be focussing on 10 aspects – bribery or buying of votes, giving gifts or meals, use of government assets, excessive expenses, intimidation, violence and harassment as well as early and postal voting.
They will also look at handouts and unlawful influence from the parties involved, biased acts of officials, 'phantom voters' and issues on polling day itself.
"In fact anyone, anywhere can be an observer.
"If you see something you think is not right, please record or take pictures as proof and report it to our website," she said, adding the identities of those giving information will be kept confidential.
She said they have so far received 10 reports of wrongdoings by various political parties this month, including giving of gifts and meals to voters and unlawful influence such as providing "kenduri" (banquets) with the hope of getting votes.
She said they have so far only about 40 registered observers in Sabah to monitor all political parties, both Government and Opposition.
She said complaints would all be compiled into a report and if necessary, taken to court for legal action.
"It is time for a clean and fair election for Malaysia," Beverly said.
"Every Malaysian should come out and vote for the future of the country."
The website to lodge their report is aduan.pemantau.org, email aduan@pemantau.org or they can also call 014-572 4007 for more details.
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