Two-hour wait in hot sun causes tension in Sabak Bernam

SABAK BERNAM: Dissatisfaction over lack of facilities and the voting process sparked tension between polls workers and delegates during the PKR election for the Sabak Bernam division here yesterday.

It started with an argument between party workers and delegates, which escalated into pushing and shoving at the Tun Razak Hall entrance, the venue of the Sabak Bernam PKR polls.

Checks by the New Straits Times Press showed that delegates, mostly in their 50s, had to wait for 45 minutes in the sweltering heat before they could enter the hall to vote.

The situation was compounded by a lack of facilities such as tents for the delegates.

Checks showed that party workers set up tents for delegates only at 11.30am.

Delegate Harun Sam, 48, said he was irked as it was the same situation at every party election.

“Party workers should be aware of the election process and take measures. They should not burden the delegates.”

Rosli Abdullah Sani, 51, said he and fellow delegates were furious that only 10 people were allowed into the hall at one time.

“We waited for almost two hours under the hot sun before we could exercise our rights. There was no tent provided for us.

“This is inconvenient, especially for senior citizens and people with disabilities,” said Rosli, who arrived at the hall at 8am.

Another delegate, Sarina Roni, 49, said the voting process was not systematic.

“Party workers should ensure that voting takes place smoothly without glitches.”