Party-hopping is for the benefit of the people, says Hamzah

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Party-hopping for public benefit? – Farah Ilyana Mohd Anuar, Simraatraj Kaur Dhillon & Benedict Weerasena

RECENTLY, a statement by a prominent politician claimed that the act of party-hopping is for the public’s benefit, not for the individual politician. It was also added that the act of party-hopping has been a norm for years in the political landscape. 

These claims made by the politician goes against the integrity of our democratic process and undermines the mandate of the people. In fact, the politician failed to explain how the act of party-hopping was in the interest of the people, when it goes against the voters’ trust and has eroded the confidence of the voters towards the democratic process.

The act of party-hopping in the eyes of the people is tied to allegations of money politics or selfish calculations such as for power, position and personal interest – which is certainly not for the public’s benefit.

MPs represent the voice of the people. When voters cast their vote, the candidate becomes the repository of trust for the voters. In a fair democracy, the trust of voters must be preserved and the principle of democracy must be upheld.

Looking back, Malaysian politics have been in turmoil since 2020, and the continuation of this concerning trend poses a serious threat to our democracy. Voted MPs switching political allegiances have considerably contributed to the political upheaval, and Malaysia cannot afford another federal or state government collapse due to party defection.

More instances of party hopping have emerged over the last few years, with the practice reaching new heights following the 14th general election, with as many as 39 MPs switching sides.

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