GE14: Good sense must prevail

EVEN though voting day falls on a Wednesday (now a public holiday), it should be Malaysians' resolve to fulfil their democratic rights by making every effort to vote.
For elections are the surest way through which the citizens express their sovereignty and choice of government for the next five years.
My concern is with regard to the immediate developments after the votes have been cast.
As the GE14 results are being announced and also immediately after that all results have been broadcast, good sense must prevail among all Malaysians – to remain calm and restrained.
As far as the two main coalition political parties are concerned it is a zero sum game – the winner takes it all and the loser stands small. Notwithstanding this, leaders of both sides must require their supporters to remain rational and mature and to accept the results.
To the victors please don't let your supporters get carried away by flaunting your victory. Please refrain from rejoicing or celebrating in public places or in the open. You may do so indoors.
More importantly don't make it worse for the losers who feel dejected and disappointed. Never resort to provoking them please.
To the losers please refrain from acts of violence or vandalising public property to vent your frustration, anger and disappointment. Or uttering vitriolic words.
In this regard, the police and armed forces must do whatever to preserve peace, security and stability and upholding the principles of the rule of law and democracy.
They must be alert, vigilant and fully prepared for any eventuality. More importantly they must remain professional and respectful of human rights in the maintenance of law and order and to ensure that lives and properties are protected.
It would be good if the police were to come out with a strongly-worded statement that they will not allow any victory/celebration processions until things have settled down.
To the Election Commission, the integrity of the counting of votes process must be upheld. Where disputes arise, the EC must act professionally.
The media too must play its part to maintain balanced and conflict-sensitive coverage to prevent stoking of negative racial and religious sentiments.
In the larger scheme of things, it is important to preserve the peace and harmony in our country while upholding the principles of the rule of law and democracy.
Elections come and elections go but Malaysia will remain.
Come polling date, Malaysians must come out in full force to vote – the results will then be a true reflection of the will of the rakyat.
Dr Pola Singh
Kuala Lumpur