Bersih 2.0 has criticised Election Comission (EC) deputy chief Wan Ahmad Wan Omar for his fierce defense of the government instead of focussing on actual electoral reforms.

In a joint statement today, the electoral reform group’s steering committee expressed disappointment over the EC’s response towards demands for electoral reform.

NONE “Bersih 2.0 is disappointed in the way Wan Ahmad (right) continues to adopt an over-confrontational tone and has lost his ability to move towards electoral reform.

"Bersih 2.0 is saddened that the EC continues to make statements that is detrimental to the spirit of cooperation for cleaner elections.

"Instead, the EC appears to be more interested in defending the ruling coalition from its competitors," said Bersih 2.0..

Despite the EC’s behaviour, the coalition of 62 NGOs hoped the EC would get its act together.

“We are of the opinion that EC and Wan Ahmad must focus on joining with the people in repairing public institutions and not to be involved in a war of words with political parties.

bersih rally petaling street 090711 “The latest statement made (by Wan Ahmad) threatens the EC’s credibility on its non-partisan stance which is required to retain public confidence.

"Making political critique is the job of deputy in a political party and not the EC,” said the coalition."

Since the massive rally on July 9 calling for electoral reform, Wan Ahmad has become the centre of attention in his vehement defence of the EC and confrontational stance against electoral reform proponents.

Yesterday, Wan Ahamd in a commentary in Utusan Malaysia attacked the opposition coalition for using ‘dirty politics’ and making the EC a scapegoat to win support in the next general election.

PAS Youth reacted slamming the EC for trying to cover up its misdeeds, and called on Wan Ahmad to resign from the commission.

PAS: EC chiding opposition to cover up misdeeds