FOR such a long time, subtle threats to race, religion, unity and chaos have been grist to the mill used as populist fodder for many politicians.

Fed up with continuous fear-mongering, poll-watchers wish for the debate in the run-up to GE14 to focus on issues that matter and for the protagonists not to insult the intelligence of prospective voters.

Observers say that Malaysia is a matured democracy where politics with the culture of fear should be a relic of the past. Politicians and institutions that are in charge of upholding the integrity of elections therefore should also be more aware of their roles to inform voters, rather than using tactics merely to scare them.

The people should be provided proper arguments as to why they should part with their votes.

At a forum recently, potential candidate for the next General Election Maria Chin said the debate must not stray“ into contentious territory that “instills fear” into voters.

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