KUCHING: The proposed bill aimed at preventing any future attempts to overthrow an elected government is raising concerns about the stability of the current Unity Government, according to political analyst Dr Lee Kuok Tiung.
Dr Lee questioned the relevance of the bill in the current context, highlighting that Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional (BN), Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, and Parti Warisan had already signed an agreement in December 2022, pledging their support for a stable government and endorsing Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the Prime Minister.
“They (the coalition parties) have already signed an agreement. So, this raises questions about whether the unity government is on the verge of collapse if they are so desperate to introduce such a bill,” he stated.
“I disagree with the proposed bill. It’s undemocratic and unconstitutional. If such a law is enacted, MPs will also lose their bargaining power,” he added.
Dr Lee’s remarks were prompted by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s proposal for a bill aimed at ensuring the continuity of a particular government until the end of its term. Zahid argued that this would prevent the frequent changes in the prime minister’s position that occurred three times during the 14th parliament term.
Meanwhile, Professor Dr. Novel Lyndon commented that the proposed bill could be tabled in parliament, but it must align with the federal constitution and the principles of a democratic system.
He divided the significance of the proposed bill into two parts: the political agenda to maintain power and prevent sabotage or efforts to change the existing government.
“When it comes to the constitution, a government can only be changed through a motion of no confidence in parliament, not through statutory declarations (SDs),” Dr Novel explained.
He emphasized the importance of this act in ensuring the stability of the government elected by the people. Political stability is vital for successfully implementing policies and agendas that promote the development of the people and the country.
From a power and political agenda perspective, Dr Novel stressed the importance of this act in ensuring stable politics and enabling the ruling party to maintain its power. He argued that political parties in Malaysia should acknowledge that forming a future government without a coalition would be unlikely, given ethnic polarization and the transition of society from modern to post-modern.
“Political stability is crucial to implement planned manifestos and policies, which, in turn, will increase investor confidence in our country. This will provide employment opportunities for our graduates and young people,” he stated.
Dr Novel further asserted that the current government should be given space and a full mandate to enable the country to compete with other ASEAN countries, particularly in the face of uncertain economic conditions in this global era of advanced technology.
“All political parties should prioritize the country’s goals over personal agendas. We need to set aside political interests and put the people’s interests first,” he emphasized.
