The new Selangor executive council must be structured in a way to reduce any dictatorial tendencies by the menteri besar, said electoral watchdog Bersih. 
 
The Bersih steering committee (right) said a more egalitarian structure would strengthen the executive branch and help prevent the repeat of the Selangor menteri besar crisis. 
 
“Within the executive council, the power of the menteri besar and other members should be properly structured to ensure that the menteri besar can lead as first among equals, but cannot act dictatorially with disregard to his/her cabinet colleagues,” it said in a statement. 
 
It said that the strengthening of key parliamentary democracy institutions could prevent any ruling party or coalition from nominating, holding accountable or removing the menteri besar. 
 
Bersih said that under Westminster constitutional norms, which underline the federal constitution, the menteri besar must be nominated and be held accountable by the ruling party or coalition. 
 
“This will not only prevent the replay of the 2014 crisis for Selangor, but can also serve as a positive model for the federal government and other states,” it said.
 
It added that the Pakatan Rakyat Selangor government must take these steps to strengthen institutions, as the rakyat is growing more disillusioned by the electoral process and feel that their will does not matter in governance.

Other areas which Bersih proposed to be strengthened, include :

  • A clear process where state assemblypersons can elect an individual for the menteri besar post without royal investigation;
  • Empowerment of legislature to scrutinize the government through bodies like the Select Committee on Competency Accountability and Transpancy (Selcat), with the support of an administrative and research team and sufficient budget;
  • Regular publication and disclosure of government activities including that of government-linked companies.
PKR deputy president Azmin Ali was appointed menteri besar yesterday months after the party attempted to remove former menteri besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim from the post.