Perak Mb Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad (4th right) handing the aides to the local residents during the santunan kasih programme held at Air Kuning ,Perak.
TAPAH: A thorough study is needed before deciding on the proposal to limit the Prime Minister’s tenure to 10 years, says Perak Mentri Besar.
Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said that the proposal has both pros and cons.
"There are pros and cons to this. Some believe that a long tenure could allow a leader to consolidate power excessively and open opportunities for abuse of power.
"However, others argue that if a leader is competent and effective, the first two terms may only be the beginning of their efforts to develop the country," he told the reporters after the Santunan Kasih with the Welfare Department recipients at the Dewn Serbaguna Ayer Kuning here, Tuesday (March 18).
"In the first term, they would still be planning and in the second term, they would just start implementing their plans.
"If we cut their tenure halfway, there is no guarantee that their successor would be able to continue what was planned," he added.
Citing the United States as an example, Saarani noted that while the country limits its presidents to two terms, each term lasts six years, unlike Malaysia, where a term is five years, making a two-term limit equivalent to 10 years.
"I think a more detailed and comprehensive study is needed to determine whether this proposal is beneficial or not.
"As I mentioned earlier, if a leader is good, effective, and visionary, their vision is usually for the long term. If we deny them the opportunity to continue their vision, it could be a loss.
"However, concerns about potential abuse of power ultimately depend on the individual," he said.
Meanwhile, when asked whether the recent leadership changes in Perak’s opposition namely, Razman Zakaria being relieved as Perak Pas chairman and Zainol Fadzi stepping down as Bersatu Perak secretary would benefit Barisan Nasional (BN), Saarani said it was a matter for the opposition.
"That is their business. I have told my machinery that we must focus on our work and strengthen ourselves.
"No matter who becomes the opposition leader or the PAS commissioner, it does not affect us. What truly matters is that BN’s machinery remains strong and continues its work.
"If there are weaknesses on the other side, that is just a bonus for us," he said.
