PETALING JAYA: The Opposition has been warned against engaging in “shallow politics” over Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s proposal to limit the tenure of the prime minister.
According to the Prime Minister’s senior press secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, the proposal to cap the tenure at 10 years is not a new concept and does not contradict the Federal Constitution. Instead, it aligns with the principles of a mature democracy.
“Regarding the proposal to limit the prime minister’s tenure to a maximum of 10 years, the Prime Minister considers this to be in line with his vision and reform policy framework under the ‘Developing a Madani nation’ initiative,” said Tunku Nashrul during his daily briefing yesterday.
“The Prime Minister also reminds certain opposition members not to exploit this noble intention for narrow and shallow racial politics.
“The role and nature of the Prime Minister’s position are clearly outlined in the Federal Constitution. Setting a term limit does not contradict these fundamental principles; instead, it is a crucial step towards ensuring the maturity of the nation’s democracy.
“This proposal to limit the tenure of the PM aims to ensure the continuity of clean governance and a more organised system while preventing the centralisation of power, which could lead to corruption and abuse of authority.”
The senior press secretary added that several other countries, such as Indonesia, had already implemented similar limits to their top leadership in the government.
Tunku Nashrul further said that limiting the prime minister’s tenure also takes into account the current and future geopolitical landscape.
“This would also encourage all parties to provide opportunities for fresh leadership and allow the next generation of national leaders to step up.
“The Prime Minister also urges MPs who are questioning this matter to read and understand before making baseless criticisms.
“Refer to Anwar’s book Membangun Negara Madani, page 181 under the title Policy Priorities for a Better Malaysia.
“The Prime Minister welcomes healthy and responsible debate on this issue, and is encouraging all parties to contribute input towards a transparent and fair system,” said Tunku Nashrul.
On Sunday, Anwar threw his weight behind a bold proposal to limit Malaysia’s prime ministerial tenure to 10 years.
“There is a proposal, and I agree with it – to cap the prime minister’s tenure at 10 years. As we know, a prime minister can serve for as long as 22 years. I support the limitation,” he said at the DAP’s national congress in Shah Alam.
In his briefing, Tunku Nashrul also stated that Anwar’s recent visit to several states last week, namely Selangor, Perak and Negri Sembilan, were to promote continued cooperation and new synergy between the federal and state governments.
“The Prime Minister believes that these meetings and discussions are essential for improving services for the people as a whole.
“Key areas of focus include the welfare of the people, particularly in terms of infrastructure, education, healthcare, flood mitigation projects and road development.
“Additionally, several other issues will continue to be monitored by the relevant agencies.
“The Prime Minister will visit Penang today and then Terengganu and Sabah,” said Tunku Nashrul.
