Civil society pushes parties to commit party registration reform in GE16

Projek Sama, a civil society initiative, has called on political parties contesting the next general election to pledge commitment to transferring regulatory authority over political party registration from the Registrar of Societies to the Elections Commission. The move, proponents say, would represent a significant step toward insulating party registration processes from executive influence. Currently, party registration falls under the purview of the Registrar of Societies, a department operating within the Home Ministry, a structure critics contend creates potential for political manipulation. By vesting this authority with the Elections Commission, supporters maintain the process would gain greater institutional independence and consistency with democratic governance principles. The proposal has gained traction among reform-minded observers who view the separation of powers as essential to ensuring fair and transparent party management in Malaysia's electoral system. Political analysts suggest the issue could emerge as a touchstone in manifestos for parties seeking to differentiate themselves on governance reform ahead of the upcoming general election.