Electoral watch group Bersih has reiterated its call for the unity government and Perikatan Nasional to sign an inter-party peace deal after the conclusion of the six state elections. In a statement on Monday (Aug 14), Bersih expressed its concern that the continuous politicking, especially intensified by the polls, has diverted the government from its duties, much to the disappointment of Malaysians who want to move forward with their lives.
Bersih called on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to take the lead in fulfilling his promises to fight systemic corruption and implement institutional reforms for better governance, accountability, and stability. With a two-thirds majority in Parliament, he has the power to deliver these necessary legislative reforms without requiring support from the Opposition. However, Bersih urged him to reach out to Perikatan’s leaders in the spirit of his Madani government, showing respect for their vital role as the Opposition and elected representatives.
Bersih emphasized that it is the people who have the right to choose their government through a mandate every five years and it is not the prerogative of politicians to seize power whenever they create an opportunity. Therefore, Bersih stated that sufficient time should be given to the ruling coalition or party to govern and prove themselves worthy of another term or be removed if they fail to deliver results.
Bersih called for an end to the rejection of election outcomes and the constant talk of mid-term changes in the government, as it disrespects the collective will of the people and damages overall confidence in the government and the democratic system of the country. Bersih urged all parties to prioritize nation-building while responsibly fulfilling their roles as government, Opposition, civil society, and the people.
Bersih emphasized that without political and institutional reforms, Anwar’s government or any subsequent government will remain vulnerable to mid-term coups and accusations of executive power abuse. Voters from across the political spectrum want an end to corruption and the Prime Minister must not compromise on his pledge to fight corruption. The reforms to make the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) independent, as well as political financing reforms, are crucial in this fight.
Bersih also proposed several arrangements and institutional reforms, including the enactment of a Fixed Term Act for the 15th Parliament until its full term ends on December 18, 2027. Other recommendations include amendments to the Standing Orders for both Houses of Parliament to empower private Members and create more Special and Permanent Select Committees, the reintroduction of the Parliamentary Services Act, the recognition of the Opposition’s shadow Cabinet to facilitate effective and constructive functioning, and the strengthening of the Dewan Negara to safeguard state rights and grant a one-third veto power to Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan.
Bersih further suggested the implementation of an Equitable Constituency Development Funding (CDF) Act to ensure equal treatment for all Members of Parliament regardless of their party affiliation, and a Political Financing Act with public funding for parties to curb money politics and corruption. It also emphasized the need for AGC and MACC reforms to eliminate political control by the Prime Minister, as well as reforms to the Election Commission (EC).
Credit: The Star : News Feed
