The Dewan Rakyat today turned into a political battlefield between Umno and PAS when both arch-rivals engaged in a hot debate on the 28 amendments to the Election Offences Act 1954.

Most of the points raised by the opposition, especially PAS, since 11am today centred on the theme of democracy and its 'inevitable' death with the passing of the bill that incorporated the amendments.

As expected, Barisan Nasional MPs defended the bill. One even thanked and congratulated de facto Law Minister Dr Rais Yatim (photo) for proposing it, saying it came at a most opportune time as recent by-elections have been plagued by chaos and violence.

Rais tabled the Election Offences (Amendment) Bill 2002 yesterday, saying the changes were preventive measures to ensure a harmonious election process.

They included higher penalties such as fines and jail sentences for offenders of the law.