KUALA LUMPUR – PKR parliamentarians have been urged to keep up the party’s political and reformist struggle despite suspected attempts by opponents to get them to cross over to the ruling coalition.
PKR secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, in a statement today, said the party has been made aware of moves to weaken the opposition bloc.
Attempts are being made to both intimidate and induce MPs into switching allegiances, he said.
“This is being done with a threat-and-bait approach, whether it is related to income tax issues, police investigations and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, or project offers and positions in government-linked companies.
"This happens when the current government has lost the support of the majority in Parliament, and in light of a parliamentary session being held when the emergency is still in force.”
The Kulim-Bandar Baharu MP said many people perceive the Perikatan Nasional administration as being unable to solve various issues facing Malaysians, from education and employment to public health.
“Therefore, PKR condemns the desperate move to force its MPs to leave the party, to become independent or join the government, either through threats or gifts.”
He said his party’s lawmakers must adhere to the principles and spirit of Reformasi, and always remember that the public evaluates their every action and is ready to respond accordingly come the 15th general election.
On Wednesday, Istana Negara said Parliament is allowed to convene during the emergency when deemed suitable by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, on the advice of the prime minister.
Comptroller of the Royal Household Datuk Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin said the matter is enshrined in sub-paragraph 14(1)(b) of the Emergency Ordinance (Essential Powers) 2021, which states that Parliament shall be called, prorogated and dissolved on a date deemed suitable by the Agong and on the advice of the prime minister. – The Vibes, February 27, 2021
