Reconvening Dewan ASAP will bust conspiracy theories, says G25 - Free Malaysia Today
PETALING JAYA: It is in the best interest of the government to heed the King’s decree to reconvene Parliament as soon as possible, says the G25 group of former senior civil servants.
In a statement today, G25 said that not only will this show respect and understanding of the King’s role in advising the government during situations such as an emergency, it will also dispel any suspicion that the government may be delaying a Parliament sitting due to self-interest.
“Through the parliamentary process, and with the transparency and accountability of ministers answering questions from the floor, there will be less cynicism and conspiracy theories from Malaysians and foreigners about the government’s real intentions,” said the group.
“In addition, Clause (1) of Article 55(1) of the Federal Constitution provides that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong can summon a Parliament sitting and not allow six months to elapse between them.
“Delaying further after His Majesty’s decree to reconvene Parliament is a clear violation of the rules in our Constitution, and of the King’s command. The government has no discretionary power on this matter.”
The last Dewan Rakyat sitting was held on 17 Dec 2020, a little more than six months ago.
A statement from the palace on Wednesday said the King was aware of the important role of Parliament in discussing matters related to Covid-19 and wanted it to be reconvened as soon as possible.
This was followed by a joint statement by the Malay Rulers that there was no need for the nation to remain under a state of emergency after Aug 1. They also called for state assemblies to reopen.
Following the King’s call, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said the government had taken note of the palace’s views and would take necessary steps based on the Federal Constitution and laws.
Meanwhile, law minister Takiyuddin Hassan, who said the King had not set a firm date when he decreed that Parliament should reconvene as soon as possible, is currently being investigated by the police for his comments.