By-elections and the Constitution


A CITIZEN elected to the Dewan Rakyat is expected to serve Parliament for its full five-year term. But like the life it mirrors, politics is full of uncertainties. Vacancies may often occur as with the tragic death of the MPs from Sungai Besar and Kuala Kangsar in the helicopter crash in Sarawak.

By-elections: Sixty-nine times since the first meeting of Parliament in 1959, “casual vacancies” in the lower House have arisen and 66 of these necessitated by-elections.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Opinion , Shad Faruqi , columnist

Next In Columnists

Respecting rights of the elderly
Man of the Hour
Malaysia’s Innovation Paradox: Rising Aspirations, Declining Foundations
Respect can build nations
Red cards, redemption and rising pressure across Premier League
Riding the tide: Malaysia-China collaboration in the blue economy
Sabah polls a wake-up call to Putrajaya
The governance conundrum
Sabah polls produces a few shockers
Turning cancer adversity into health opportunity

Others Also Read