Perhaps PAS fears 'equality', 'fairness' - Chang on MOU rejection

PKR vice-president Chang Lih Kang has questioned whether Perikatan Nasional’s rejection of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on allocations for opposition MPs is driven by a fear of equality and fairness.

He said this after PAS information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari reportedly claimed the MOU contained “dangerous” clauses on equality that could compromise the position of Islam and bumiputera.

Chang (above) retorted by accusing Fadhli of distorting the issue and suggested PAS’ fear of terms like “equality” and “fairness” might be the real reason behind the rejection.

“Are they implying that they want to amend Article 8 of the Federal Constitution just because they fear these words?” Chang asked, referring to the provision that guarantees equal treatment under the law for all Malaysians.

According to several media reports yesterday, Fadhli claimed the MOU contained clear provisions requiring PN parliamentarians to recognise equal rights for all Malaysians regardless of their race and religion.

“(Conversely) there is no mention of guarantees on the position of Islam and bumiputera rights in the memorandum, which leaves the issue in an ambiguous position that can be misinterpreted.

“Doesn’t the Federal Constitution place Islam as the religion of the federation above other religions? Doesn’t the same Constitution also guarantee bumiputera rights? So, what is the meaning of the terms of the agreement that forces PN to recognise equal rights regardless of race and religion?” Utusan Malaysia quoted him as saying.

Chang dismissed Fadhli’s claims as political spin, clarifying that equality under the law does not negate the special privileges accorded to Malays and bumiputera, but ensures fairness for all citizens.

“Reality is that PAS’ contention is completely unreasonable because Article 8 of the Federal Constitution on equality has been there for a long time since independence, including the 33 months under PAS and PN rule,” he said.

The Tanjong Malim MP also urged PAS to stop misleading the public with selective interpretations of the law and instead embrace the spirit of unity, particularly as the country celebrates Malaysia Day today.

Previously, opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin announced that the opposition had unanimously rejected two versions of the MOU - one between the government and PN, and another with all PN parliamentarians.

Hamzah cited four main reasons for the rejection: the potential to affect the constitutional privileges of Malays and bumiputera; conditions that are contrary to cultural, moral, and religious principles; the potential for misinterpretation and abuse of power; and it is tantamount to a restriction of MPs’ parliamentary privileges.

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