KKB polls: Why wait to file an election petition if you have proof of wrongdoing, Loke tells opposition

HULU SELANGOR: The opposition should file an election petition immediately if it has proof of offences being committed in the Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election campaign, says Anthony Loke.

“Why does Perikatan Nasional want to wait until after the election to file a petition?” the DAP secretary-general said after attending an event at a driving school here on Thursday (May 9).

“Perhaps they can sense defeat. If they’re suggesting such a plan, it likely indicates concession.

“What more can I say? We conducted our campaign strictly by the book.

“If the opposition is dissatisfied, they are welcome to file an election petition,” added Loke, who is also Transport Minister.

PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan claimed that Pakatan Harapan had abused its power and misused government machinery before and during the by-election campaign.

“We will file an election petition if Pakatan wins. There are precedents, such as the cases in Kuala Terengganu and Kemaman,” he said.

Loke responded that the unity government had adhered strictly to the law, with directives issued to its candidate and all campaign teams to comply with regulations.

“We do not engage in corrupt practices. Any party with grievances is within its rights to file a petition or take similar actions after the election as part of the legal process.

“However, it’s quite peculiar for a party to declare its intent to file a petition even before the election has concluded. It’s almost as if they’re preparing for a loss, which I find strange indeed,” he added.

In response to the use of government vehicles by ministers during the campaign, Loke clarified that these vehicles are exclusively for official duties and ministry-related visits.

“I do not visit Kuala Kubu Baharu daily. Earlier today, I attended an official event in Kuala Lumpur, and the driver accompanying me thereafter is standard practice.

“This does not represent misuse but an established procedure. Anyone suspecting a violation is encouraged to voice their concerns to the relevant authorities, such as the Election Commission and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission,” he said.

Recently, controversy arose after Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming announced an allocation of RM5.21mil to the Hulu Selangor Municipal Council.

The Kuala Kubu Baharu by-election will be held on Saturday (May 11).