Whither the uncorrupted image of the Madani government, now that its own DPM is alleged of bribing voters

By Mihar Dias Copyright (C) August 2023

Whither the acclaimed squeaky clean uncorrupted image of the Madani government, now that its own DPM is alleged of bribing voters on the eve of nomination day.

The recent accusation made by former Umno Youth leader Khairy Jamaluddin against Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi regarding alleged bribery during a ceremony in Terengganu has raised significant concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.

Khairy made these allegations publicly on the Keluar Sekejap podcast, expressing doubts about the possibility of any meaningful investigation under the Anti-Corruption Act. Such public allegations by prominent political figures can have far-reaching implications and may affect public trust in the democratic system.

During the ceremony, Zahid's announcement of grants and allocations to various youth associations and motoring groups in the state, along with the conditional aspect related to voting for certain political parties, has drawn sharp criticism from Khairy and former Umno Youth vice leader Shahril Hamdan.

The timing of such announcements, just a few days before the nomination day for the state elections, raises eyebrows and can be perceived as attempts to influence voters through financial inducements.

Shahril Hamdan's concerns about the specificity of the announcement for the youth of Terengganu and the conditionality attached to voting for specific parties also add weight to the matter. Such targeting and conditions may raise suspicions of using financial incentives to sway voters in favour of a particular political agenda.

For a fair and transparent democratic process, it is crucial that politicians refrain from making statements or announcements that may give rise to allegations of bribery or corruption. Upholding the principles of integrity, accountability, and impartiality is paramount to ensuring the credibility of the electoral process.

While the allegations made by Khairy need to be thoroughly investigated, it is also essential for all political leaders to be cautious and responsible in their actions and statements. Respect for the rule of law and the principles of democracy is essential to maintain the public's confidence in the political system and its representatives.

Ultimately, the responsibility lies with the relevant authorities to investigate such allegations thoroughly and take appropriate actions to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and address any potential wrongdoings.

Open and transparent investigations can help to dispel doubts and restore public trust in the democratic institutions.

Let me end this column by apending some tips from AI on what not to do on the eve of polling day with the hope that we may help achieve a fair and just election in the coming state elections.

Avoiding Allegations of Voter Bribery on Polling Day according to AI:

• Avoid making monetary or material promises to specific groups or associations just before polling day. Such actions can be perceived as attempts to influence voters through bribery.
• Refrain from linking the grants or allocations to the performance or voting outcome of the group in the upcoming polls. This can be seen as a direct incentive to vote for a particular party or candidate.
• Be cautious about specifying certain regions or communities in announcements related to grants or allocations. Such targeting might raise suspicion of attempting to gain favour in those areas.
• Do not add conditions related to voting for a specific political party or coalition when making announcements regarding financial assistance. This kind of conditionality can be seen as an attempt to manipulate voters' decisions.
• Political leaders and representatives should exercise prudence when making public statements before polling day. It's essential to avoid any appearance of trying to sway voters through financial inducements.
• Any grants or allocations should be made based on genuine developmental needs and without any connection to the electoral process.
• Transparency and accountability in the allocation of funds are crucial to avoid allegations of corruption or bribery.

In conclusion, on the eve of polling day, political leaders should be mindful of their actions and statements, ensuring they adhere to ethical standards and avoid any behaviour that may raise concerns about attempting to influence voters through improper means as alleged by KJ and his fellow DJ, Shahril.

Upholding the integrity of the electoral process is essential for fostering trust and confidence in the democratic system.

Editorial note: On 30.7.23 “Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki has stated that the grant of RM100,000 to the Terengganu Central Development Authority Youth Association (Ketengah) and the allocation of RM250,000 for the Terengganu Malaysia Youth Council are not forms of corruption.”

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