Responsibility also lies with individual voters

The ongoing political discord and a series of allegations against certain politicians may make some voters feel exhausted at the seemingly never-ending round of elections. But the by-elections this Sunday are very important, for they will have an impact on the stability of the government. They will certainly be a factor in determining the longevity of the Democrat-led coalition, especially if candidates from the coalition parties lose to the opposition camp.

Some may support or despise the government. But instead of throwing eggs at candidates or resorting to violence, voters in the provinces concerned have a much better way to make their voices heard by the government - by casting their ballots this Sunday.

Voters should be aware that their decisions are crucial, for they will decide the parties and the politicians who will become the governments of the future. Some might be fed up with traditional politics, in which money plays the major role. But instead of blaming politicians alone, voters also share the blame in allowing election fraud to happen. If every voter decides to exercise his free judgement and refuses to sell his vote, then vote-buying will be both futile and impossible.

Political reform will not be achieved unless voters participate honestly in elections. They should come out in full force to exercise their right to ensure that good people are elected to the House.