Essence of mature democracy

THERE is an unusual election happening in Melaka. It is an election without any of the conventional features of campaigning. There are no organised house-to-house visits, small-group meetings or large-scale public gatherings. Walkabouts are prohibited.

Campaigning in public spaces is not allowed. However, candidates can put across their messages online. They can use both the print and electronic media to campaign to their heart’s content. WhatsApp, Twitter, and other such channels have all become popular means of communication.