COMMENT Bersih was formed on Nov 23, 2006, to fight for free and fair elections for this country. Since then, it has evolved to fight for the strengthening of democracy, which includes free and fair elections and institutional reforms.

Together with millions of Malaysians, I have come to awareness of the manipulation of our elections and the failure of public institutions to protect our rights as citizens.

This awareness came about not just through the mega rallies Bersih has organised but through the constant exposure of the wrongdoings of the Election Commission in handling elections, problems in the electoral roll and the manipulation of our electoral boundaries.