Former PPP Youth leader senator T Murugiah wants Section 18C of the Registrar of Societies (ROS) Act to be revoked so that members of political parties can challenge unjust decisions made by their leaders.

mahathir lee kuan yew visit comment 110609 02 Under the provision, they are not allowed to seek redress in court if they are unhappy with the decisions of their leaders. The party’s decisions are final and cannot be challenged.

This clause was believed to have been added to the ROS Act during the tenure of premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad, when Umno was declared illegal by the High Court and Umno Baru was created as its replacement.

Mahathir was believed to have added this safety clause to prevent any Umno member from challenging his decision through the courts, as it may have led to further disunity in Umno.

“We are entering a new political dimension after the March 8 (2008) tsunami. Such a clause will only retard the growth of the political parties and curtail the voice of freedom of action and speech,” Murugiah pointed out.

“Many members, especially the (younger ones) are (now speaking up) for the betterment of their parties. Removing this clause will ensure that no political leader has absolute power to hold the party to ransom. True democracy can flourish in all the political parties.”

kayveas murugiah ppp Asked if his call has been prompted by his expulsion from PPP by president M Kayveas (left in photo) , he said the problem not only affects that party, but all the BN parties as well.

Murugiah, the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, had challenged his former boss for the top post but the ROS decided in favour of Kayveas.

Speculation is now rife that Murugiah may join a multi-racial party from either Sabah or Sarawak. He is expected to make an announcement on Saturday.