Zaid calls on Umno to push for Dewan Rakyat speaker replacement

Former minister Zaid Ibrahim has urged Umno to push its partners in government to allow Parliament to replace Dewan Rakyat speaker Johari Abdul.

Taking to X, Zaid noted that Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan and Umno vice-president Johari Abdul Ghani have spoken out about the speaker’s ruling that six former Bersatu MPs will retain their seats and not force a by-election.

“Both are critical but polite. Both present their respective comments in different ways.

“To not upset the PKR strongman, Mohamad suggested an expensive recall election when MPs switched allegiance against party orders. It is a good alternative, but we can't afford it.

“Johari Abdul Ghani called for an amendment to the law as if there is a loophole somewhere that justifies the speaker’s non-decision.

“He justifiably feels the present state is unsuitable for investor confidence,” the veteran politician said.

Simple remedy

Zaid (above) stressed that no law or regulation can replace ethical conduct.

He said proper functioning of government institutions, including Parliament, can only happen when officials are honourable and honest in discharging their duties and responsibilities.

“It is good that both Umno leaders have spoken, but the remedy is quite simple: choose another person who is disposed to be fair as speaker.

“If Umno feels strongly about the issue, the Madani leadership will have no choice but to allow Parliament to elect another speaker,” he added.

Yesterday, Mohamad said the Anti-Party Hopping Act should be reviewed to overcome loopholes and prevent MPs or assemblypersons from jumping to the opposing party.

This follows Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s remark that the government is open to holding discussions to plug the loopholes in the Constitution (Amendment) Act (No 3) 2022 (Act A1663) or the Anti-Party Hopping Act.

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