KUALA LUMPUR – Several MPs squabbled over the legitimacy of the Perikatan Nasional government during the afternoon session of the special Parliament sitting today.
The war of words erupted after Ong Kian Ming (Bangi-PH) said he believed that Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (Pagoh-BN) no longer holds majority support in the House.
“Pagoh no longer has the majority. It is not tested yet, but I know it is a fact, including those from across the floor (know this as well),” said Ong.
“I also know that many are frustrated with Pagoh due to the response to the (Covid-19) crisis, which is not good.”
Ong said he is confident that opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is Port Dickson MP, is a better fit for the prime minister position if given a chance.
However, he agreed that no single MP in the lower house commands the majority to become prime minister.
“Why not have a Covid-19 moratorium agreement?
“A CSA (confidence and supply agreement), whereby we all stand shoulder-to-shoulder and work as frontliners to control Covid-19 and restore the economy.”
He said MPs can have such a discussion so the people are assured that the country has a direction during the pandemic, adding that politics can wait until the next election.
His remark earned a rebuke from Ahmad Tarmizi Sulaiman (Sik-PAS), who said it is “proven” that Muhyiddin has secured a majority.
Tarmizi said the move by the government to allocate RM5.8 billion to manage the vaccination drive is a testament to its swift response to the global health crisis.
“Therefore, Pagoh still has sufficient majority for us to continue efforts by the government.”
This resulted in Chang Lih Kang (Tg Malim-PH), Teh Kok Lim (Taiping-PH) and Cha Kee Chin (Rasah-PH) demanding that Muhyiddin’s legitimacy be put to the test by holding a vote in Parliament today.
R.S.N. Rayer (Jelutong-PH) also joined the fray to seek clarification on the “confusing” statement made by Tarmizi, saying “it is true that Pagoh does not have the majority in Dewan”.
In response, Tarmizi said: “Where is the proof?” – The Vibes, July 28, 2021
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