Should it prevail in election, Melaka BN to appoint five additional assemblymen

KUALA LUMPUR – Melaka Barisan Nasional (BN) is set to amend its state constitution to allow the government to appoint five unelected assemblymen should the coalition emerge triumphant in the state elections.

Speaking during the launch of the coalition’s manifesto in Melaka, BN election director Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the addition of more lawmakers will provide much-needed political stability, which is among the coalition’s selling points in its manifesto.

“Our political maturity will be manifested through the proposal to amend the state constitution for the purpose of appointing five additional state assemblymen from the youth and NGO background to allow them space and broaden the perspective of the state assembly sittings beyond the scope of politics. 

“However, BN must win two-thirds majority from the seats that are being contested. Only then, can we be able to amend the constitution and implement it,” he said during the launch of the manifesto, today.

The Umno deputy president also said BN will neither accept any defectors nor “principled frogs” just to fish for votes and ensure victory.

“Every elected representative works for the people throughout the entire state, irrespective of urban and rural areas or even at the borders of the state.

“Based on this principle, BN promises to provide equal allocation for all 28 assemblymen, including opposition as a step to ensure prosperity to all people of Melaka regardless of political background,” he said.

Among other promises stated in the manifesto, Mohamad said, is BN’s aim to have 30% female membership in their policymaking team.

“BN, if elected to helm the state government, will also set up free bus services for rural areas and ensure all housing developers include religious and recreational facilities in their respective development plans.

“We will also resolve electricity and water disruptions throughout the state within one year and settle flooding issues through eight projects within a span of five years,” he said, adding that BN will also ensure that rivers in Melaka will be the cleanest in the country within one year. – The Vibes, November 10, 2021