KUALA LUMPUR – Putrajaya should table a fixed-term parliament bill to ensure the elected government stays in power until the end of its term, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He floated the idea today, saying this will avoid the government from changing hands three times in a single term, like what took place between 2018 and 2022.
“There must be a paradigm shift among politicians so that the dominant party or coalition, with the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, completes its parliamentary term.
“We do not want a repeat of the 14th term, where we witness a succession of three prime ministers in one term. The effect it has on the people and economy amid the Covid-19 pandemic is a bitter experience for the country. Investors need stability,” he said in a press conference after a Rural and Regional Development Ministry event today.
Zahid also advised parliamentarians in opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional (PN) to prioritise the welfare of the people, instead of their political ambitions.
“We can have differing opinions, but let’s put the people and the country first. Learn from the previous events. Set aside our differences.”
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had repeatedly challenged the opposition to bring a motion of no-confidence to Parliament. None were tabled in the last Dewan Rakyat session.
Recently, PN chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin claimed that the Federal Constitution allowed for a change in government either via an election or the resignation of the prime minister.
Lately, Malaysia’s political landscape has been abuzz with Langkah Dubai speculations, which were aimed at toppling the present government.
Claims related to the “move” are being investigated by the police. – January 13, 2024