Enact anti-hopping laws quickly, says Malaysian Bar

[superadmin]

PETALING JAYA: Putrajaya must enact anti-hopping laws to stop politicians from switching parties, the Malaysian Bar says, adding that the measure has to be taken to strengthen political stability and public confidence in the democratic process in the country.

Newly-elected president AG Kalidas said Article 10(2) of the Federal Constitution allows Parliament to impose restrictions as it deems necessary or expedient in the interest of the security of the federation or any part thereof, for public order or morality.

“Unexplained defections and switching of political allegiances by elected representatives have greatly undermined the rakyat’s confidence in the political process, and if it goes on unchecked, will lead to voter apathy.

“Switching parties or political allegiance after being voted in on a particular platform can be viewed as a betrayal of the decision of the voters,” he said in a statement.



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