Dr Mahathir’s prerogative to pick cabinet — Chong
KUCHING: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has the prerogative to pick candidates to fill positions for the Pakatan Harapan ( PH) federal cabinet, said PH Sarawak chairman Chong Chieng Jen.
The Stampin member of parliament said it was inappropriate for him to comment on the unverified list of ministers and deputy ministers that went viral this week, which saw him listed as Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs.
“I think the list that has gone viral is not final or confirmed as the Prime Minister has yet to make the announcement.
“It is the prerogative of PM to identify the number of ministers and deputies in his cabinet,” Chong told a press conference after closing the Fire and Rescue Department’s ( Bomba) Emergency Response Team ( ERT) training programme on Wednesday.
On the number of positions that should be given to Sarawak considering that Sarawak PH contributed to PH being able to form the federal government, Chong again said it was up to Dr Mahathir to make the decision.
When asked about his possible appointment as deputy minister, Chong paused before letting out a giggle.
He then urged members of the
I think the list that has gone viral is not final or confirmed as the Prime Minister has yet to make the announcement. It is the prerogative of PM to identify the number of ministers and deputies in his cabinet. Chong Chieng Jen, PH Sarawak chairman
media to wait patiently for the Prime Minister’s announcement, which is expected to be on Monday.
However, Chong admitted he will be leaving for Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.
“I think it is not proper for me to jump the gun. So let’s just wait until Monday and you will all know,” he added.
According to the unverified list, the other Sarawak PH representative on the cabinet is Parti Keadilan Rakyat Sarawak chief and Selangau member of parliament Baru Bian, who was listed as Minister of Works.