KUCHING: The function of checks and balances in a democratic system depends on the choice and mandate of voters, and is not determined by any political party having to make way for its opponents in an election.
Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar said Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), which is contesting all 82 DUN seats, naturally aims to win all of them, in line with the objective of every political party taking part in an election.
"When GPS contests all 82 seats, of course the aim is to win all of them. The responsibility of other political parties is to convince voters that they are capable of carrying out the checks and balances function," he said.
He said this when met by reporters after officiating the opening of Klinik Kitak Galacity on Saturday.
According to him, other political parties also have a responsibility to convince voters that they can offer a choice and carry out the checks and balances function if given the mandate.
Elaborating, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Asfia said voters have the power to decide which representatives are given the mandate, while each political party must present its offer and convince the people of its capability.
He also opined that young professionals within GPS can serve as an internal checks and balances mechanism, particularly by voicing their views if there are matters in the administration that need to be improved.
He said such views and criticisms are important to ensure that the state's development direction continues to take into account economic performance, the cost of living and the people's standard of living. -UKASnews
