Melaka polls: Parties should use campaign to defend track records, outline policies - Adly

MELAKA - Political parties have been urged to use the election campaign period to outline their policy platforms and explain their respective records in government to voters.

Melaka Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Adly Zahari said democratic practice required all parties to explain the implementation status of development projects and the capabilities of their candidates, while emphasising the importance of checks and balances as part of elected representatives' responsibilities.

The PH candidate for the Bukit Katil state seat in the 16th Melaka state polls said voters have the right to assess actual achievements on the ground, including the implementation status of projects undertaken by the previous state government, to make informed decisions.

"Parties must be prepared to defend their track record and policy proposals. Voters have the right to seek answers on development projects, the use of public facilities and the capabilities of candidates.

"Responding to questions and accounting for one's achievements are part of an elected representative's duties. The people choose leaders who can perform and are prepared to face scrutiny," he said at PH's daily press conference here today.

On the police report lodged against a Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate over alleged misuse of public facilities for campaigning, Adly, also Deputy Defence Minister, said the legal process and official investigations should be respected without prejudging the authorities' findings.

He said legal channels exist to ensure aid to the public is distributed transparently and without influence from campaign interests.

The Election Commission has set Nov 14 for polling in the Melaka State Election, with early voting on Nov 10. - BERNAMA