 Finally , where an MP of the ruling party vacates his or her seat , a counterpart in a neighbouring ward may take over his or her functions , thus eliminating the need for a by @-@ election . However , this arrangement may not work if an opposition MP vacates his or her seat and no by @-@ election is called , because of the dearth of opposition MPs in Parliament . Therefore , the voters in the opposition ward will be denied of representation until the next general election . 
