KUANTAN: Having local government elections will invite more harm than good in terms of services, finances and political polemics, says Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.

       The Umno vice-president said it would also cause friction between races if not well managed.

       "I firmly believe that whatever is to be done, the highest commitment should be given in prioritising the best service for the people. That is the most important agenda for a local government.

       "The system that is used at the moment is still in accordance with the current requirements. The local council president or mayor is usually a senior civil servant, experienced and neutral in terms of political leanings.

       "Council members are also appointed by the state government and surely have the same wishes and agenda as the ruling government.

       "If there is a fault, I think it is related to the professionalism and performance of the individual, not the fault of the existing system," he said in a statement on Friday (Dec 22).

       Wan Rosdy, who is also Pahang Mentri Besar, said he was worried that there would be more harm done if political elements were brought into the system.

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       "The focus will be more on politics than service to the people... that is happening nowadays. Those who are elected are sometimes based on popularity but they can't do the job," he said.

       Wan Rosdy said financial implications also had to be taken into consideration as millions would be spent on local government elections.

       "For the Kemaman parliamentary by-election, RM3.5mil had to be spent to hold an election.

       "This can happen in local government elections. The money can be better used for the welfare of the people," said Wan Rosdy.

       He also advised all parties to be more careful in giving opinions, especially on sensitive issues.

       "I see that sometimes those views are deliberately made to provoke but hidden behind the name of democracy.

       "True, it is a good democratic process. But remember, no matter how much we agree with this democratic system, let us not let ourselves be sacrificed solely 'in the name of democracy'," he said.