KUALA LUMPUR: The proposed amendments to limit the prime minister's term do not undermine the powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar, when tabling the second reading of the Bill, said the proposed amendments were framed to be aligned with the Federal Constitution and do not reduce the role of Parliament.
"So, the proposed term limits are not a denial of leadership opportunities, but rather an effort to ensure that this country continues to be guided by institutions that function and are not tied to any individual. It does not change the basis of parliamentary democracy, does not affect the prerogative powers of the King and does not reduce the role of the Dewan Rakyat in determining confidence in the government," he said.
"In fact, this amendment strengthens the constitutional structure through a clear provision to strengthen the country's system of checks and balances," he told the Dewan Rakyat here on Monday (March 2).
Anwar said the proposed Bill has eight phases as stated in the blue copy that was distributed to the Members of Parliament on Feb 23.
"We are amending the Federal Constitution to provide for a term limit for the prime minister, including the method of calculating the term, the term of office and related matters," he added.
It was scheduled that 41 Members of Parliament will debate on the Bill today, and the MPs are expected to vote after the session.
