Reform agenda progress too slow, Bersih has grounds to speak out - Tian Chua

SHAH ALAM - The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih) has the right to voice concerns when it feels the reform agenda promised by the Unity Government is progressing too slowly, according to former PKR leader Tian Chua.

Chua, noting Bersih's role as an independent non-governmental organisation campaigning for reform, affirmed their basis for raising such concerns.

"I believe efforts towards renewal and the implementation of the promised reform agenda have been made, but there may be a lack of communication in informing the community about its progress.

"When it is not explained, the people do not know what steps to take next.

"If the government says it is ready to carry out reforms as demanded by Bersih, they need to inform the public," he said.

Chua stressed that Bersih and other interested NGOs, which strongly support this reform, have the right to know its progress.

"However, when Bersih itself expresses basic concerns, it may indicate they are not receiving enough information," he added.

His comments came in response to Bersih's statement expressing concern that the reform agenda might be abandoned and not implemented before the end of the government's full term.

Chua, who is also a former PKR Vice President, highlighted that the government should prioritise this issue as it is a significant reason voters supported Pakatan Harapan (PH).

"Reform is synonymous with the government's platform, so it needs to be focused on and implemented as soon as possible," he urged.

On the possibility of Bersih organising street protests to demand reform, Chua said, "Whether Bersih decides to mobilise in the streets is up to them, but it should not be solely decided by the leaders.

"If the people are angry and feel the need for mobilisation, they will show up.

"The organisation is only a coordinator. The key is to address the concerns of the people. If they are angry, we cannot stop them," he added.