In between my walkabouts, I took some time to write this letter to the Returning Officer seeking accountability on several issues:
1) I want to know exactly what legal basis permits Mr Lee Hsien Loong to put up posters in the constituency I’m contesting in. I don’t think the ELD’s vague clarification about “past practice” is satisfactory, given the clear wording of the relevant legislation and poster and banner permits;
2) There is a poster and banner quota given to all candidates. Does Mr Lee’s poster, even if it falls within the letter and spirit of the legislation and permit, count towards the PAP candidate’s poster and banner quota in the constituency?;
3) Why does the ELD permit giant billboards of the PAP candidate under the pretext of SG 50 billboards during election period, given that SG 50 has concluded 3 weeks ago and these billboards are being sponsored by taxpayers’ monies?
Let me be clear: I’m CONFIDENT of going toe to toe with Biow Chuan despite this uneven playing field. I am also CONFIDENT of dealing with Lee Hsien Loong’s record on the national stage. After all, the role of an MP must be to hold the Government accountable. I’ve been tireless on the ground and am not afraid to raise national issues. This issue is a matter of principle I feel strongly needs to be accounted for. It potentially impacts other constituencies across the country, although I only have standing to write in as the candidate for Mountbatten. I hope for a clear and satisfactory answer from the ELD. I also hope Biow Chuan will fight this election on an even playing field.
Source: Jeanette For Mountbatten
