Religion has always had a hand in shaping political sentiment. We do not have to look beyond our shores to see its manifestation in election campaigns.

From Muhyiddin Yassin’s purported claim of Christianisation of Malaysia, a video of which raised the ire of many, to the total rejection of non-Islamic values by PAS, religion has been gaining traction in the Malaysian political psyche in the past few decades.

PAS is, in fact, quite fervent about religious matters. One of its leaders, Shahiful Nasir, has warned voters that failing to mark the “X” for the party or its coalition partners is a big enough sin to send the voter straight to the nether regions.

To give him credit, he did seek forgiveness for his sin.

But Muslim leaders are not the only ones who have invoked the fear of God to garner support for specific parties.

With the crucial day approaching, others have started their own ungodly campaign on the sly.

Rather than spew religious rhetoric from the rostrum, they accost the lone individual at a bus stop or side street to preach their political gospel.

The message is clear: cast your vote in favour of whatever party they’re in favour of, or suffer the wrath of the Almighty.

The trouble with preaching the gospel to gain political advantage is that it sometimes engenders fear rather than raises hope.

History has shown us that governing through religious edicts only results in a dysfunctional administration.

Prayers don’t actually put food on the table. It is hard work, supported by a well-oiled machinery based on tried and tested economic principles, that works.

Of course everybody is entitled to his beliefs. But threatening omnipotent retribution for failing to take a specific political line is a sin.

Pray we do not get taken in by these false prophets.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.