A group of local academics have joined the bandwagon to criticise the conduct of the recently concluded 11th general election.

The Malaysian Social Science Association (PSSM) also supported Election Commission (EC) chief Abdul Rahman Abdul Rashid's call for an independent probe into the irregularities.

I

n a resolution approved at its annual meet on Saturday, PSSM said it "fully supported" the call because the "problems and weaknesses were serious and have undermined the integrity of the EC and the practice of elections in Malaysia."

The association - which also comprises those outside the academia who support the promotion of social sciences and the humanities - proposed that the independent body be made up of persons of integrity and be representative of all sectors including political parties.

It added that the review should look into the law and other aspects which affect the role and impartiality of the EC, including identifying interventions made against the commission's functions and take appropriate action against these violations.

"In line with the prime minister's desire to increase the efficiency and transparency of all government bodies and institutions, we welcome the promise of full cooperation by the EC," said PSSM in their resolution.

It is understood that PSSM is in the process of seeking the endorsement of other non-governmental groups.

Widespread glitches

Last Thursday, Abdul Rashid proposed that an independent probe be called into complaints that his commission failed to discharge its duties and responsibilities fairly and with due care.

Following this, corruption watchdog Transparency International applauded the suggestion, adding that the call "must be seen as confirming the magnitude of the issues."

Opposition parties PAS and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (Keadilan) went one step further and rejected the election results. They have also urged the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to call for a re-election.

However, there has been little public outcry over the election debacle, despite that many were denied the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.

In the parliamentary constituency of Gombak (in Selangor) alone, polling agents alleged that "hundreds" of names were missing from the roll and EC officers were nowhere to be found.

Scores also failed to cast their ballots despite having their names on the roll because the EC did not assign them to voting streams, a procedure that ensures voters can obtain a ballot at their polling stations.

Other election glitches reported nationwide, included voters being transferred to different constituencies without their knowledge.