CM says ‘mishandling’ cause of Bill’s defeat

KUCHING: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg says it is a case of ‘mishandling’ on the part of the secretariat pertaining to the tabling of the amendment to Article 1 ( 2) of the Federal Constitution in Parliament.

He said the mishandling had resulted in members of parliament ( MPs) from Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) not having a good understanding of the Bill.

“Initially, it was okay, but things were not done as what we expect.. and I think there is a weakness by the secretariat in dealing with it (the amendment to Article 1 (2) of the Federal Constitution).

“If there has been good handling on the part of the secretariat, then we will have a very strong sort of platform of understanding, then the wordings (on the Bill) can be better,” he told reporters here yesterday.

He had earlier officiated at the closing of Certified Integrity Officer (CeIO) programme at the Old State Legislative Assembly (DUN).

Aba ng Johari said his submission on the amendment to Article 1 ( 2) of the Federal Constitution was within the perimeter of the constitution and Malaysia Agreement 1963 ( MA63).

He believed that Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was very serious and sincere to bring about change and restore the MA63.

Amendment to Article 1 ( 2) of the Federal Constitution on April 9 was not passed after it failed to get two-thirds majority.

The amendment received 138 MPs in favour, 59 abstain and none objected from the total of 222 MPs.