ONE important thing that voters must remember is that an election manifesto is nothing more than a list of sweet promises. An election manifesto is not enforceable in the eyes of law. If the candidate and the political party were to win an election and then refuse to fulfil their promises in the manifesto, there is nothing voters can do about it. In 2013, the Court of Appeal held that an election manifesto is not legally enforceable. Following this landmark ruling, the appellate court struck out a civil suit brought by a group of single mothers who were seeking RM10.9 million in allowances over the Selangor government’s alleged failure to fulfill its manifesto presented for the 2008 general election. 

What is an election manifesto? It is a published declaration of the intentions, motives, or views of the issuer. It generally appears during an election to win votes. It usually makes promises pertaining to the quality of life, such as reducing the cost of living, creating more job opportunities, shrinking unemployment, improving public transport and infrastructure, better social welfare, better access to education, and debt forgiveness. It is tempting to believe the sweet promises. But remember, they are not legally enforceable. In such a situation, the voters often become victim to unfulfilled pledges.

What exists, however,  is a moral obligation on the part of the politician, to make good on his promises. An honourable politician will fulfil his promises without excuses or delay. It is deeply disgraceful to do otherwise.

At the same time, a new set of rules must be created if we want our nation to serve as a good example of democracy. Politicians must fulfil all the promises they have made in their election manifesto. The Election Commission should consider setting up a special committee to study the issue. The Election Offences Act 1954 could me amended to make the promises legally binding. Once a manifesto has legal force, politicians will be compelled to honour their word. It will also protect the rights and interests of the voters. – May 7, 2024.

* Muzaffar Syah Mallow reads The Malaysian Insight.