KKB by-election: Selangor's Raya open house may breach Election Offences Act, warns Bersih

PETALING JAYA: The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) has cautioned the Selangor government over its upcoming Hari Raya Open house in Kuala Kubu Baharu, saying it could be an election offence.

Bersih questioned the location and timing of the open house on Nomination Day for the by-election on Saturday (April 27), as the campaign period would then be under way.

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"Bersih would like to remind the Selangor government that having a Raya Open House, including various programmes such as kenduri (feasting) and distribution of 'duit raya' could be against the Election Offences Act 1954.

"Organising a kenduri during an election is an offence under Section 8 (Treating, or providing food, drink, refreshment or other provision) and distribution of duit raya, an offence under Section 10 (Bribery)," it said in a statement on Friday (April 26).

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It added that the state government should realise, since government resources would be used to organise the Open House, that it cannot be used as an election platform to introduce party candidates or campaign by putting up flags and banners at the venue.

"Bersih would like to remind political parties or any candidates who plan to have an open house not to do so, as it is against the Act.

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"We would like to stress to all who are contesting, including the state and Federal Government, to adhere to campaign ethics to ensure a clean and fair by-election," it added.

Kuala Kubu Baharu voters go to the polls on May 11.

The seat became vacant on March 21 when its assemblyman Lee Kee Hiong of Pakatan Harapan passed away at age 58.