Don’t turn Parliament into a circus, PM says, urging MPs not to go overboard

KUALA LUMPUR: MPs across the political divide should watch their behaviour in Parliament so that the August House does not turn into a circus, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister also said that Parliament proceedings are being broadcast live and MPs shouldn’t go overboard when arguing with one another in the House.

ALSO READ: Anwar wins big in Dewan Rakyat, but it’s not forever

“We can differ in opinion and argue. But, we must uphold the sanctity of the House and not go overboard.

“Because the people will laugh at us and watch this Parliament turn into a circus,” said Anwar in his speech before tabling the Consolidated Fund (Expenditure on Account) Bill 2022 in Parliament on Tuesday (Dec 20).

Anwar also said it was the Speaker’s prerogative to take action against misbehaving MPs.

ALSO READ: Johari Abdul is new Dewan Rakyat Speaker

“We will give full support if action has to be taken against MPs from the unity government,” added Anwar.

Meanwhile, Anwar said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who’s also the parliamentary chief whip, has informed MPs to watch their behaviour in Parliament.

“They were told to respect the rules of the House. I hope the same will be ordered by the Opposition chief of Perikatan Nasional,” said Anwar.

Anwar also congratulated Datuk Johari Abdul as the newly appointed Dewan Rakyat Speaker.

ALSO READ: Confidence vote was for moral legitimacy, says Anwar

“I know that this is a challenging job, after seeing the antics (by MPs) on Monday (Dec 19),” added Anwar.

During debates on the Confidence Motion on Anwar’s premiership on Monday (Dec 19), the House saw many fiery shouting matches between MPs across the political divide.

There were numerous occasions where Johari had to intervene.

The Confidence Motion was passed with a simple voice vote after 12 MPs delivered their speeches.