THE education minister has overstepped his powers when he barred teachers and education officers from taking part in the democratic process, said Bersih 2.0.
Calling Mahdzir Khalid’s comments a blatant abuse of his position, the election reform organisation said the remarks violated all principles of governance.
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“Mahdzir’s comment, saying civil servants are welcome to join the government, also displays his ignorance, as he is not able to distinguish the roles and responsibilities of a government from that of a political party.
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Bersih 2.0 said the act of instilling in civil servants the fear of economic loss violated their rights, as voters, to choose their own representatives.
“It also contravenes their freedom of expression and right to dissent.
“Civil servants are not the living property of the ruling coalition. They are citizens of the country, and their rights are enshrined in the federal constitution.
“This kind of intimidation should not be tolerated as civil servants form a large portion of the workforce in Malaysia, and are under the direct control of the government.”
The electoral watchdog said a change of government was not necessarily negative, but increased political competition where incumbent parties would be placed under pressure to ensure better laws and policies.
It also called on the Election Commission to investigate the matter, to protect the rights of citizens to vote without fear or favour.
Earlier today, it was reported that Mahdzir had warned teachers and education officers not to criticise the government or hold any posts in opposition political parties. – January 19, 2018.
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