[UPDATED] Don’t pull a fast one on Agong, just step down: Zahid tells PM

KUALA LUMPUR – Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin should not usurp the power of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in determining the appointment of the prime minister, said Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

In a statement tonight, Zahid said his party appreciates Muhyiddin’s “confession” that he no longer holds majority support in the Dewan Rakyat.

“With this acknowledgement, the Pagoh MP no longer has the legitimacy to carry out his duties as the prime minister, as per Article 43 (4) of the federal constitution,” Zahid said.

The Bagan Datuk MP also said that Umno will not consider any offer from someone who has no legitimacy, let alone someone who is desperate enough to offer bribes to prolong his political career.

“As an MP who has sworn to preserve and uphold the federal constitution, the Pagoh MP should not usurp the power of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to decide on the appointment of the a prime minister.

“Umno advises that the people remain calm until His Majesty performs his duties and responsibilities according to the constitution under Article 40(2) to appoint a new prime minister from Dewan Rakyat members,” he added.

In the same statement, the former deputy prime minister extended his gratitude to 15 Umno MPs who have been loyal in defending the party’s stance as well as backing the royal institution and constitution.

Earlier today, Muhyiddin made a last-ditch appeal to opposition MPs for bipartisan support during the vote of confidence in the Dewan Rakyat in an effort to continue administrating the country.

In what appears to be a desperate attempt to cling to his position amid growing indication of a loss of majority support, the embattled prime minister who is also the Bersatu president has promised to implement a slew of changes and policies.

This includes introducing a two-term limit for the prime minister and an anti-party-hopping law, benefits and remuneration for the opposition leader equal to a federal senior minister’s, and the inclusion of opposition MPs in the discussion of any bill, including federal budgets. – The Vibes, August 13, 2021