The government does not plan to review the laws on the need to have by-elections because it is provided for in the Federal Constitution and Elections Act 1958, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz said.
In reply to a question from Datuk Md Sirat Abu (BN-Bukit Katil), he said the estimated cost of conducting each by-election is between RM318,000 and RM1.29 million, depending on the constituency involved.
“Of the 16 by-elections conducted after the 12th general elections, the highest amount was spent for Batu Sapi at RM1.29m, followed by Hulu Selangor (RM1.2m), Tenang (RM1.1m), Galas (RM1.047m) and Sibu RM1m.
“Others were Kerdau (RM915,000), Merlimau (RM755,000), Manek Urai (RM548,003), Penanti (RM514,600), Permatang Pasir (RM461,367.93), Bukit Gantang (RM460,971) and Bagan Pinang (RM449,485), Permatang Pauh (RM409,000).
“And the rests were Batang Ai (RM391,700), Kuala Terengganu (RM325,416) and Bukit Selambau (RM318,000),” Nazri told Md Sirat who has asked for the cost spent for all the by-elections after the 2008 general election.
In total, over RM11m had been spent on the by-elections.
Nazri said a substantial amount of money is needed among others, to cover the transportation costs, accommodation, food and drinks of those involved.
To a supplementary question from Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (PAS-Rantau Panjang) who asked whether measures could be taken to reduce cost during by-elections, he said the issue does not arise.
“This is a necessary thing. How to save money? During elections, the question of cutting cost does not arise. What is important is to ensure a smooth election machinery and public safety. If we need to spend, we spend,” Nazri added.
