KUCHING: The period between now and polling day provides all political parties involved in the 14th general election ample time to prepare their campaign strategies.
Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) information chief Datuk Idris Buang said although the period may seem long, it gives time for political parties to strategise first before launching their respective campaigns after Nomination Day on April 28.
“The long period provides for a level playing field for all. The time frame between Nomination Day on April 28 and Polling Day on May 9 may feel like a long period, but it can be good for all. It must be seen positively,” he said.
Idris added that the extra preparation time would enable the election machinery of the political parties involved to better explain issues to the people during the campaign trail.
“In addition, the Election Commission (EC) and relevant government agencies can also efficiently plan and prepare logistics and manpower aspects,” he said when contacted yesterday, in response to criticism by Bersih 2.0 on the dates fixed by the EC for nomination and polling for GE14.
“This provides a conducive environment for democracy to be practised in a peaceful, fair and equitable manner,” he said, adding this is something that is good for the country.
He also pointed out that the EC has the absolute power and prerogative as well as the independence to fix the dates for nomination and polling, in accordance with the federal constitution and election law.