Our country is once again at its political crossroad when Perak’s Menteri Besar (MB) Datuk Ahmad Faizal Azumu was overthrown through a no confidence vote in the Perak State Assembly (DUN) today. In this regard, the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (BERSIH 2.0) urges the newly formed government to practice more mature politics during their administration.
BERSIH 2.0 calls for the newly formed government to be fairer and professional towards the opposition (regardless of party) to foster healthy competition between parties and building a stable democracy.
Reforms that benefit all parties in the long run should be a major consideration in the negotiations for the formation of a new government. The Confidence and Supply Agreement (CSA) between the government and the opposition can be a tool to reach an agreement between the parties.
Therefore, BERSIH 2.0 proposes three key reforms to create a healthier political competition:
- Fair allocation for all assemblymen regardless of political party, government or opposition.
- Establishment of select committees for the Perak DUN so that 50 backbenchers ADUN and the opposition can play an effective and thoughtful role in the formation of state policies and monitoring the implementation of these policies.
- Must not include promises and make state GLC positions as gifts to government-supporting ADUNs but the positions need to be filled by those who are qualified and capable.
BERSIH 2.0 has repeatedly asserted that political stability can be achieved in two forms, namely by a majority government or a minority government with CSA. All parties should be open-minded with any coalition but the parties in the new ruling coalition must announce a coalition government agreement on key policies to avoid unnecessary quarrels in the future.
Released by:
BERSIH 2.0 Steering Committee