Because our OB Markers are poorly defined, there is no one
definition of libel in Singapore. Basically, all you need for a
defamation suit is for the minister to have a bad hair day on the
day when you try voicing out a criticism.
We don't have fair and free elections means that there are far too
many walkovers in elections, and it is pretty dictatorial for the
govt to claim victories in walkover constituencies since, after
all, the people in those places did not vote for them. Elections
are also unfair because the agency in charge of Elections is a
department of the govt, which means that it is open to (c)overt
manipulation, which damages the Integrity of our "democratic"
system. One last point: Gerrymandering is very prevalent down here;
Constituencies change boundaries at teh whim and fancy of the
government, and this confuses voters, as well as candidates (not
from the Ruling Party) as they can no longer recognize which
constituency they are contesting for. I suspect that results in the
invalid applications the opposiiton is constantly accused of. Also,
the government seems to enjoy snap polls, which gives it an unfair
advantage in elections since only THEY know the timetable. ANd I
believe, that is also what got UMNO pissed with su in 1963. And to
think our history textbooks are still praising that move as "shrewd
and clever"! *sigh*
As for the ISA, the reason why it must be changed is because it is
far too vague and gives the police and law enforcement officials
too many sweeping powers to arrest people. It goes back to that
same question: what defines "national" in "national security"?
Sometimes, one can really wonder if it merely refers tot eh
security of the govt's power.
the pikamaster
