PETALING JAYA: Muda has criticised the unity government for going against its pledge to curtail political patronage after a poster of Wanita PKR vice-chief Sangetha Jayakumar's appointment as a board member of the Port Klang Authority (PKA) had gone viral on social media.
Muda said the unity government led by Pakatan Harapan continues to indulge in the very practice that it once vehemently opposed, which is political appointments to government-run enterprises.
“It is both disheartening and hypocritical that such actions persist, despite promises made to the Malaysian public,” it said in a statement on Monday (Jan 8).
It added that the country is witnessing a distressing pattern with political appointments especially from PKR and Umno. This has raised questions about the sincerity and integrity of the current government.
“We urge the government to provide a transparent explanation to the Malaysian public regarding these appointments.
“Muda believes in a Malaysia where governance is transparent, accountable and free from the vestiges of political patronage. The resurgence of such practices undermines public trust and jeopardises the nation's democratic principles,” it added.
On that note, Muda called on the government to immediately review all political appointments made to all government-linked entities and ensure that appointments are based on merit, expertise and capability rather than political allegiance.
Aside from that, it called on the government to uphold the principles of accountability and transparency by providing clear justification for each political appointment.
Muda also said that the government should reaffirm its commitment to eradicating political patronage and restoring public faith in a democratic institution.
“We urge all Malaysians to remain vigilant, uphold the principles of justice and integrity and demand accountability from those entrusted with the responsibility of governance,” it said.
Meanwhile, PKA chairman Ean Yong Hian Wah, when contacted, confirmed the appointment.
“Yes. Confirmed,” he said in a brief text message.
The Star is waiting for Sangetha’s response on the matter.
