KUCHING: Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s offer of political reforms is sensible and good for the country in moving forward.
Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan chairman Senator Robert Lau said such offer from the government is not bribery. It is in fact the very nature of a constitutional democratic system of government.
“No one in the opposition camp, not a single person, now can show he or she has the majority required under the constitution to form a majority government currently.
“Whoever so desires to be the next prime minister will also have to make an offer that is acceptable to the MPs across the aisle and the offer has to be legitimate.
“Will the same people currently calling the offer by Muhyiddin, a public bribery say the same when their turn comes to make an offer and compromise to get enough support?” he asked.
He stressed that political compromise came about not voluntarily but prompted by the reality of the election results or political situation.
“Malaysia politics have been a series of compromise and accommodation since independence through coalition governments.
“What was offered by Muhyiddin is one of such moments. The federal constitution mandates that the prime minister commands majority support in the Dewan Rakyat.
“Muhyiddin realises he needs support from across the aisle. In order to get their support, he has to make an offer that is legitimate and acceptable.”
Lau pointed out that the proposed anti-hopping law would be good for the nation and a deterrent to the current political culture of ‘frogging’ for personal gain.
“Too often the preferred solution has been to entice individual political frogs to switch support. The decision to switch is for personal gain.
“Politicians can switch support but must do so based on reasons, able to withstand public scrutiny and gather their constituent’s support. This can be tested by the elected member resigning his or her seat and seeking re-election.”
Lau urged all MPs to play their role in evaluating the offer and vote with their conscience during the confidence vote.
“It is time to put public interest first and set aside political rivalry and personal self-interest. It is time to move forward with courage in ways that are just,” he said.
