PETALING JAYA, June 12 – Leaders from parties within the unity government have pushed back against Bersih’s criticism, asserting that Putrajaya is diligently working on institutional reforms despite the electoral watchdog’s claims of sluggish progress. DAP central executive committee member Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali emphasized that reforms, particularly institutional ones, require time to materialize, dismissing Bersih’s expectations for immediate action as unrealistic. Sheikh Umar highlighted the government’s focus on separating the roles of the attorney-general and public prosecutor as a pivotal institutional reform effort underway.
Meanwhile, Umno Supreme Council member Razlan Rafii echoed Sheikh Umar’s sentiments, stating that several of Bersih’s past demands had been met by the previous BN government. Razlan urged the government to scrutinize Bersih’s recent demands, labeling some as “illogical” and unjustified. He particularly criticized Bersih’s call to halt the appointment of former civil servants to head the Election Commission (EC), emphasizing the necessity for appointees with extensive knowledge in law and government administration. Both leaders concluded that Bersih’s relevance has waned, accusing the organization of playing politics rather than fostering constructive dialogue.
