MELAKA: The abrupt exit of DAP assemblymen from the state administration has effectively closed the door on negotiations sought by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh (pic).
While the state had not completely ruled out the possibility of the assemblymen reversing their decision, Ab Rauf said the opportunity for discussions was abruptly cut short when they submitted resignation letters for all positions.
Ab Rauf said he took into account advice from Anwar, who is Pakatan Harapan chairman, after the latter had personally contacted him and urged that room be left for negotiations.
“I take note of and respect the Prime Minister’s views in asking me to leave room for negotiations following the action taken by the DAP elected representatives.
“I appreciate the Prime Minister’s concern for prioritising economic development and the welfare of the people.
“However, they did not wait for negotiations. Instead, they immediately submitted all their resignation letters,” he told reporters.
Earlier, Melaka Pakatan chairman Adly Zahari said the coalition would hold a special meeting today before deciding on the coalition’s position regarding the state government.
Adly said the meeting would determine the future of cooperation between Pakatan and Barisan Nasional in the state following DAP’s withdrawal from the administration.
Commenting further, Ab Rauf said the state government received the official resignation letters on Tuesday, allowing seating arrangements in the legislative assembly to be changed with immediate effect.
“When the Prime Minister asked for negotiations, I told him it was no longer possible because they had already submitted all the resignation letters,” he said.
However, he stated that the state government remains open to discussions, especially regarding issues related to the welfare of the people and the state’s development.
Ab Rauf said that although DAP was no longer part of his administration, both sides should avoid becoming political enemies to benefit governance and public welfare.
“The state government will always remain open to discussions, particularly on matters involving the interests of the people,” he said.
He also said the state government would take over the management of constituencies’ service centres that were previously under the assemblymen’s control.
“We will complete all new appointments in accordance with the Melaka constitution and the prevailing administrative regulations,” he added.
On Tuesday, Melaka DAP announced its immediate withdrawal from the state government after the state assembly passed amendments to allow for the appointment of nominated assemblymen.
The four assemblymen who relinquished their positions were Allex Seah Shoo Chin (Kesidang), Low Chee Leong (Kota Laksamana), Leng Chau Yen (Banda Hilir) and Kerk Chee Yee (Ayer Keroh).
The Prime Minister had urged Melaka DAP to postpone the decision so that the focus can remain on development and the people’s welfare.
