Muhyiddin’s proposals not viable, say groups

PETALING JAYA: The Prime Minister’s call for bipartisan support is not a viable solution for the current political stalemate, say several groups in a shared statement.

“We question the Prime Minister’s special televised address where he presented seven proposals – an olive branch to opposition parties for cross-party agreement – just to stay in power under the guise of institutional reform goals.

“Under the current and shaky Perikatan Nasional regime, this is certainly not the priority in resolving the current political deadlock,” the associations said in a statement issued yesterday.

They urged Tan Sri Muhyddin Yassin to have a special parliamentary sitting immediately in order to properly determine whether he has majority support.

“If the final result is the loss of majority support, it must comply with Clause (4), Article 43 of the Federal Constitution.

“Muhyiddin must immediately step down or seek an audience with the Yang di-pertuan Agong to dissolve Parliament.

“However, the King can refuse the Prime Minister’s request to dissolve Parliament,” they said.

The associations are the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall, Angkatan Belia Islam Malaysia, Pertubuhan Ikram Malaysia, Gabungan Bertindak Malaysia, LLG Cultural Development Centre, United Chinese School Committees’ Association of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Hokkien Association and Projek Wawasan Rakyat.

They noted that there had not been any instance in the country’s history in which an incumbent prime minister was ousted by a vote of no-confidence, thus making it important to ensure the due processes were followed.

“We would like to remind the opposition parties that they should not hastily accept any conditions imposed by the Prime Minister.

“They should instead establish a constitutional precedent during this political crisis by urging the Prime Minister – who has lost the majority support – to resign immediately, or insist on respecting the Federal Constitution and accept the motion of no confidence,” they said.

The associations also added that any moves towards reforms should be done after political developments concerning Muhyiddin’s premiership are settled.

“Any reform agenda must wait for the development of the situation after Muhyiddin accepts Parliament’s decision, and the political alliance that finally wins majority confidence will reach the consensus of both the ruling party and the Opposition.

“This is the proper practice for our government, according to the Federal Constitution,” they said.