Formulate Govt Opposition Peace Deal Bersih Reiterates

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Bersih has reiterated calls for the Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim-led government and Perikatan Nasional to sign an inter-coalition peace deal after the conclusion of the six state elections.
The electoral watchdog again stressed that rejection of election outcomes and discussions about mid-term government is disrespectful to the people, undermining democratic foundations and breaking the citizens' trust in the government.
“In Malaysia, our federal and state elections are held every five years for good reasons.
“It is the rakyat who have the right to determine who has the mandate every five years, not politicians who want to seize power at every opportunity they created themselves.
“It is time for all parties to focus on nation-building and for all to play our part responsibly as government, opposition and the rakyat,” Bersih said in a statement today.
Similar to its first call on July 16, the group has now provided more comprehensive measures the government and opposition can adopt with the peace deal. They are:
Fixed Term Parliament Act (FTPA): The FTPA ensures that the 15th Parliament's full term ends on Dec 18, 2027, with predefined election dates. Early dissolution could only occur under specific conditions, enhancing political stability and public confidence.
Confidence mechanisms: Codification of mechanisms for confirming new prime ministers and removing incumbents, providing stability for small majority governments while upholding the role of the head of state.
Parliamentary oversight enhancement: Amendments to Standing Orders to empower private members, establish more select committees and allocate time for non-governmental business in Parliament.
Parliamentary independence: Reintroduction of the Parliamentary Services Act, securing funding for Parliament's independent functioning - including hiring staff, research and member service centres.
Opposition recognition: Formal recognition of the opposition's “Shadow Cabinet”, ensuring access to resources and information for constructive opposition.
Equitable Constituency Development Funding (CDF) Act: Legislation to provide equal funding to all MPs regardless of party affiliation.
Political Financing Act: Implementation of public funding for political parties to curtail corruption and money politics.
Strengthening the Senate: Empowerment of the Senate as a guardian of state rights, with elected members and enhanced powers for specific states.
Reforming the AGC and MACC: Separation of the Attorney-General Chambers from political control and impartial selection of MACC leadership.
Election Commission reforms: Empowerment of the Election Commission for impartial oversight of elections, with a focus on inclusivity and accessibility.
While acknowledging the coalition government's capacity to enact the promised reforms, Bersih urged Anwar to proactively engage with PN leaders to secure their backing, demonstrating mutual respect and aligning with the tenets of the Madani government.
Bersih also emphasised that the responsibility to initiate these reforms lies with Anwar, asserting that the success of his administration hinges on his commitment to anti-corruption efforts, independent institutions and comprehensive reforms.
“The proverbial ball is truly in the prime minister's court and it is for him to earn the mandate the rakyat has given him and his coalition to govern for the remaining four years and four months of his term.
“Without these political and institutional reforms, his government or any governments after him will remain vulnerable to midterm coups and accusations of abuse of executive powers.
“The rakyat will judge his coalition at the ballot box come the 16th general election,” Bersih concluded. - Mkini

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