KOTA KINABALU – Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) today announced that its alliance remains intact, despite the looming possibility of a political shake-up at the federal level.
GRS chairman and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Mohd Noor said leaders from the ruling component parties renewed their cooperation today in view of political developments in the peninsula.
“Leaders of the GRS have reached a consensus to maintain cooperation in the state government and uphold the mandate given by the people during the 16th state elections in September last year.
“We share the same views and unanimously agree that cooperation in the present state government will continue,” he said after communicating with all GRS component party leaders.
GRS comprises Sabah Bersatu, Sabah Star, Sabah Umno, Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS), MCA, MIC, PAS, Gerakan and ally, Parti Bersatu Sabah.
The alliance has 48 assemblymen, five senators and 11 federal lawmakers.
The federal Perikatan Nasional administration continues to face turmoil following a brewing constitutional crisis over the emergency ordinance.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Parliament and Law) Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan had told the Dewan Rakyat on July 26 that the emergency laws have been revoked effective July 21, taking parliamentarians by surprise and inciting questions over whether the move had secured the king’s assent.
In a statement by Istana Negara on Thursday, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong had rebuked the government for going against his decree for the matter to be tabled and debated in the Dewan Rakyat.
His Majesty reprimanded the Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin-led administration for acting against the spirit of the constitution and misleading the House.
The Prime Minister’s Office had, in response, said the Agong was duly advised on the matter, and that the constitution provides that His Majesty act in accordance with the cabinet’s advice.
While the emergency has effectively ended, the constitution provides that ordinances will remain in effect for a period of six months, unless they are earlier revoked or annulled.
Muhyiddin also in a statement today said the revocation process by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, as advised by the cabinet on July 23, could not be accomplished but that his government will table the matter for debate when the Dewan Rakyat reconvenes next month.
Meanwhile, Hajiji assured that all GRS leaders were united and have pledged to take all the necessary steps to further solidify the state government.
“I pray that the political disruptions in Kuala Lumpur will be resolved amicably so that we can focus all our efforts on managing the Covid-19 pandemic threat, economic recovery and political stability.” – The Vibes, August 3, 2021
