KUCHING: The decision of state opposition Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) to work with the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS)-led coalition government is seen by the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Socialist Youth (DAPSY) Sarawak as a potential threat to the state’s political landscape.
DAPSY Sarawak chief Peter Hee felt PSB’s decision has given absolute power to the coalition in the state assembly, “reaching the highest level in history”.
“I do not want to question the decision of Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh (PBS president) about it, but what is of more concern to me is the democratic system and civil society in Sarawak.
“This situation has the potential to create a tragedy in our democratic society.
“There will be less checks and balances and competitions among political parties, leading to abuse of power, increased corruption issues, and disregard for the people’s opinions,” he said in a statement this morning.
Hee said without checks and balances, the government is more likely to ignore different voices and opinions, and limit freedom of expression and the practice of democratic principles.
He added that government decisions may be less diverse and fail to represent the needs of different community groups, resulting in issues of equity and social justice.
“Effective checks and balances, and exercising strong monitoring and criticism, are essential to ensure that opposition parties can freely voice their views and have sufficient resources and power.
“I believe DAP alone will not be enough. A democratic society needs a strong check and balance mechanism to limit the power of the government and protect the public interest.
“This requires the support of people’s power, political competition, citizen participation, and independent monitoring institutions,” said Hee.
