KKB by-election: We respect Bersih's view on Hari Raya Open House issue, says Saifuddin

KUALA LUMPUR: While the government respects the views of the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih), the public can decide if any electoral rules were broken in the latest by-election, says Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Responding to Bersih's statement claiming that the Hari Raya Open House held in Kuala Kubu Baharu right after nominations closed on Saturday (April 27) by the state government could be construed as an election offence, the Home Minister said that everyone is already familiar with the laws that govern by-elections.

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"We believe that this by-election has clear laws governing it, be it the MACC Act or otherwise. Bersih as an entity has given their views, and I believe all sides can make their own conclusion," he said while emphasising that he respected Bersih's views on the matter.

In the statement on Friday (April 26), Bersih questioned the location and timing of the open house as the campaign period would then be underway.

"Bersih would like to remind the Selangor government that having a Raya open house, including various programmes such as kenduri (feasting) and distribution of money (duit raya). The giving of food during the election period is an offence under Section 8 (Treating) while giving of duit raya is an offence under Section 10 (Bribery) of the Election Offences Act 1954," Bersih said.

Regarding the upcoming campaigning, Saifuddin said that they would focus on the future rather than the past.

"If we dig up the old, it will never end. In politics, we must invite the people to look to the future.

"During the 12 days of campaigning, we will use this time to discuss our programmes, success stories, plans, and why the people should pick our candidate.

"If there are those who wish to keep on bringing up the past, go ahead. We can't control that," he said.