The article written by Kim Quek is an excellent account of the abuses in Ijok.

Dr Puthucheary's comments are wonderful observations of an expert on the electoral irregularities - which we would otherwise miss or dismiss.

These and other accounts in malaysiakini calls for the ordinary rakyat to seriously consider taking action.

Alas as I understand it, taking the EC, the government, the BN politicians to task in a court of law is a very difficult process.

The laws on elections and election petitions do not support the ordinary voter to scrutinise the election machinery and taking those who have taken liberties with the gaps in the law and the procedures under the law and those issued by the EC.

Simply put, the odds are against us - the voter.

Whatever may be our party political affiliations, it is very important I feel, that we must ensure that our electoral processes are fair and that they promote free elections.

This at least should be one of the firm standards by which we can measure free and fair elections.

For this to happen, we have to look at the irregularities and downright abuses. We have read a lot on this already. If we know that these abuses happen, then the law and processes have failed us. They need change.

We have a number of experts in the field of electoral democracy, electoral laws, petitioning the Courts and related fields.

I believe they have spoken over the years, published their opinions and books, gave speeches, took cases to court and the list goes on.

Surely we have had enough? Enough is enough!

If we think we need to go to court now, the political parties certainly have to do that. What can the ordinary voter do? Perhaps a league of voters can plan their cases together, even re-test the rules of locus standi again. Some can say that this is a foolhardy exercise knowing the hopelessness of the cause.

I like to say here that we must try and try again. An avalanche of cases in court indicate mounting displeasure.

Ijok provides a great opportunity and rallying point for us to re-shape our future.