By Election

Today we are again hearing news that there will be another by election in Negeri Sembilan following the death of its assemblyman. Since the March 2008 general election, this will be the nation's record 9th by election after a general election. Let's see the list as follows and the reasons for these by elections:

1. Bagan Pinang, NS; TBA; Death of assemblyman (blood disorder)
2. Permatang Pauh, Penang; 26/8/2008; Resignation of MP
3. Penanti, Penang; 31/5/2009; Resignation of assemblyman
4. Permatang Pasir, Penang; 25/8/2009; Death of assemblyman (heart ailment)
5. Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu; 17/1/2009; Death of MP (heart attack)
6. Bukit Selambau, Kedah; 7/4/2009; Resignation of assemblyman
7. Bukit Gantang, Perak; 7/4/2009; Death of MP (heart attack)
8. Batang Ai, Sarawak; 7/4/2009; Death of assemblyman (stroke)
9. Manek Urai, Kelantan; 14/7/2009; Death of assemblyman (heart attack)

As far as I'm concerned, the 3 by elections where either the MP or assemblymen resigned could be avoided at all costs. Whether they should resign or not is another matter for another day. What is of concern to me is that 6 of the elected representatives died due to numerous reasons. That's only one and a half years into a new term. We have about three to four years to go until the next general election. Till then, only God knows how many more will die and how many more by elections to come. These indicate that candidates chosen are not fit for their job.

The fact is that every by election costs money. These money are the rakyat's money. The money involved are not small. It amounts up to millions of ringgit. Something really need to be done to avoid these unnecessary by elections. These money can be used for better purposes for developing the nation. Too many by elections also mean too many politicking which will also affect the performances of our politicians.

I'm not a politician. Therefore, I'm not well versed of the requirements of being a candidate for election. What I know is that candidates must fill up certain forms and submit them during nomination day. Candidates must fulfill certain criteria such as he is not a government servant and must not be a bankrupt. What I'm not sure is whether the candidates need to submit a full medical report or not.

Common sense says that a medical report is an indication whether a person is fit for the job or not. Whatever government posts that you apply, you certainly have to submit your medical reports together. Even though you've passed the interview session, your appointment will still subject to your medical report.

I just wonder why can't the same apply to being a candidate? They are basically government servant because they serve the people. They are being paid using government's money which in one way or another is rakyat's money. The best person should serve. If you are not fit for the job, then don't apply for it. Being a Member of Parliament (MP) or an assemblyman is not an easy job. There are too many responsibilities, that's of course if you truly know your responsibilities. Bottom line is, the rakyat deserves the best!