GERALD Rentap Jabu (PBB-Layar) has proposed for an amendment of the Sarawak Constitution to extend the term of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) until it is safe to hold the state election.
Debating on the tabling of the Temporary Measures for Reducing the Impact of Coronavirus Disease, 2019 (Covid-19) Bill, 2020, Rentap expressed concerns over the possibility of the state election being held soon.
“I do not want blood on my hands. If the experiences of our fellow Sabahans are anything to go by, the impact of Covid-19 on the lives and livelihood of Sarawakians are likely severe.
“The social and democratic fallout would also be adverse without compression.
“It is thus, that I venture to propose for the consideration of the honourable members of this august house for an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Sarawak to extend the period of the DUN beyond five years until it is safe to have an election,” he said.
He said such a proposal is not without precedent for the clause, extending the term of the Council Negri in 1968, still exists in the Constitution of Sarawak in the form of Clause (3A) of Article 21, which was precipitated by Section 4 of the Federal Constitution (Amendment) Act 1968 (Act No. 27 of 1968), in force from September 9, 1969.
“If indeed there are expressions of support for this proposal from all the honourable members from both aisles of this august house, then perhaps a ministerial motion to such effect would be in order.
“But let me be clear about two things. One, for the sake of the sanctity of this august house, it is paramount that such motion is unanimously and wholly supported by all the honourable members. Even with the most noble of intentions, one would face accusations of attempting to undermine democracy which serves as the very foundation of this august house.
“Two, such motion of this august house would come to naught, if we, from both aisles of this august house do not seek its approval from our respective party colleagues who are members of the federal Parliament,” he said.
If, however, such amendment to the Federal Constitution is forthcoming, Rentap said DUN members can act accordingly to effect such amendment into State law.
“Bearing in mind my oath of office and with all humility, by such proposal, let the record of this august house show that the GPS (Gabungan Parti Sarawak) government, led by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg, is willing to consider every means, short of an emergency, towards preserving the lives and livelihood of the people of Sarawak, which is the very essence of democracy.
“Sarawak is us, we are Sarawak. We must preserve Sarawak. Our love for Sarawak is beyond anything that divides us. Save Sarawak, jaga Sarawak, Intu Sarawak.”
