PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad says the Election Commission should reconsider its move to bar ministers and deputy ministers from campaigning in by-elections during working hours.
He said it was “grossly unfair” to the government and should be reconsidered.
“By-elections will not change the government,” he said.
“But, there is directive (from the EC) that government officers and in this case the ministers and deputy ministers are not allowed to campaign during working hours.
“Whereas, ministers do work beyond the normal office hours like up to 10pm.
“Such restriction can be seen as if giving the other side (the opposition) more chance and they (the opposition) have no work and want the job.
“They can campaign for 24 hours, but ministers are not allowed to do it.
“I feel this restriction is not good for us to put into practice.”
Dr Mahathir also spoke about other restriction preventing the ruling parties from using government assets, citing his experience during the Cameron Highlands by-election.
“I, as the prime minister, which is a top post, cannot use government aircraft and vehicles during the campaign period in Cameron Highlands,” he said.
“I had to rent a private helicopter to go there and use my personal car (for the ground travel) from the airport.
“This is such an unusual restriction.
“Also as the prime minister, it is normal for me to work beyond the working hours.
“I’ve asked for overtime, they don’t give me.
“I am at the losing end of being a prime minister.
“You (as the prime minister) can’t be on the board of any companies.
“Previously, I would get allowance, but now I get nothing.”
It was reported that ministers had been told by the EC that they should not canvas for votes during their official work hours.
There had been accusations that government resources were being abused during by-elections.
The commission also restricted the use of government machinery and assets during campaigning.