KUALA LUMPUR – Sarawak DAP today claimed that “certain quarters” had specifically requested for its MPs to be excluded from being appointed as deputy ministers in the national unity government.
Its chairman Chong Chieng Jen in a statement said this was relayed to him yesterday by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“I was told about it just before the prime minister announced the deputy ministers over a live telecast,” he said.
He said Sarawak DAP understood the situation and how the national interest of political stability and a strong government were more important than personal interests and positions.
“I thank the prime minister for contacting me last night before the announcement, explaining the delicate situation of the present political landscape and requests made by some quarters for the exclusion of Sarawak DAP MPs from the posts.
“As our party secretary-general Anthony Loke has made clear: our party’s support for Anwar to be the prime minister is unconditional, we accept whatever arrangement that the prime minister makes for a more stable government,” he said.
With Pakatan Harapan as the backbone of the current government, he said he was confident the administration would move away from the old days of cronyism and corruption.
“Those who have been accustomed to the old BN (Barisan Nasional) way of running the government will have to change to be more accountable,” added Chong.
He also called on all state party members and supporters not to be disappointed and dismayed about the current arrangement.
He said Sarawak DAP MPs will continue to play their role as government backbenchers and be a voice for the people of Sarawak.
“We will do our best to provide the necessary check and balances in Parliament and ensure that the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance are complied with by the ministries and government agencies,” he added. – The Vibes, December 10, 2022
