THE political uncertainty in the country that could result in the collapse of the Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim-led government before the end of its term is still there, according to Bersih.
“That is why there is political manoeuvring by their partners to get Datuk Seri Najib Razak pardoned, and for charges against Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to be dropped,” Bersih chairman Thomas Fann said during the launch of its 2022 Annual Report via Zoom.
“All these are speculations and behind-the-scenes manoeuvres.”
Fann said the concern of the present government collapsing is still a valid one because apart from the anti-hopping law, the political situation remains pretty much the status quo as per 14th general election (GE14).
“What this means is there is the possibility that this government may not last. This is despite the recent constitutional amendment, which introduced an anti-hopping law, coming into effect on Oct 2022,” he remarked.
Fann also pointed out that there is discontent among opposition members at not been given greater recognition, which is another potential risk that the federal administration is currently experiencing.
Fann was responding to press inquiries about the electoral watchdog’s hopes for the government this year, particularly amid speculation about the fates of UMNO’s Najib and Zahid.
Following UMNO’s appeal to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, and with Anwar recently confirming that he would be sitting on the Pardons Board hearing the former prime minister’s application, there have been concerns that Najib may be granted a royal pardon.
The PH president, on the other hand, insisted that there would be no conflict of interest because pardon applications must follow due process and the final decision is at the Agong’s sole discretion.
In Zahid’s case, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) recently revealed that it is currently conducting additional investigations into his Yayasan Akalbudi corruption trial, following his lawyers’ submission of a new letter of representation to the Attorney- General’s Chambers (AGC) to review his charges.
The court recently announced that it has decided to delay Zahid’s Yayasan Akalbudi corruption trial until August.
To eliminate a parliamentary coup against the unity government, Fann urged Putrajaya to implement reforms that would appease all parties.
This would entail hastening the implementation of equal constituency development funds and giving the opposition a more active and meaningful role in Parliament.
“I think this can take away some of the pressure for a change of government, because if they know they can influence and have their voices heard in Parliament, then there is less of a chance for them to be impatient,” he said.
“Things like equal funding are very low-hanging fruits. It is at the prime minister’s discretion, but it should be done fast.
“As a matter of Malaysia Madani and good will, I think it should be given because it will strengthen the stability of the government.” – April 13, 2023
Main pic credit: Malaysia Now
