'PM term limit, AG-PP reforms at risk after Rafizi-Nik Nazmi vacated seats'

Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan today lamented the decision by Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad to vacate their parliamentary seats, just weeks ahead of Putrajaya's plan to re-table two constitutional reform bills in the Dewan Rakyat.

Syahredzan (above) was referring to Putrajaya's second attempt at imposing a prime ministerial term limit, which previously failed due to insufficient support, and to separate the public prosecutor role from the attorney-general's functions (AG-PP Bill).

According to the DAP lawmaker, it would be more difficult to get the proposals passed now as both require the support of at least two-thirds of the august house, which remains at 148 despite Rafizi and Nik Nazmi's resignations.

"I am not sure what the two former MPs' stance will be on the AG-PP bill. However, based on their votes earlier this year, they would most likely support the PM term limit amendment, just like all other Pakatan Harapan MPs at the time.

"Now, we can no longer rely on their support, and I fear that we may not achieve the necessary numbers.

"The opposition has not shown any change in position on this bill, and institutional reform is not something they prioritise.

"Other coalitions within the government bloc may not have the same enthusiasm for this particular bill, even if their respective whips play a role," Syahredzan said in a statement.

Failed first attempt

The lawyer pointed out that the term limit proposal had faltered when it only received the support of 146 MPs on March 2, just two votes short of the number required to amend the Constitution.

READ MORE: Opposition MPs thought PM term limit bill was to give Anwar 10 years in office - Fahmi

The AG-PP Bill, meanwhile, was deferred during its second reading on March 3 as the government decided to refer it to a parliamentary special select committee (PSSC) for refinement.

The government is expected to re-table both proposals during the next Dewan Rakyat session that begins on June 22.

Syahredzan said that while he disagrees with the duo's decision, he wishes them well as former colleagues.

"However, as someone who wants to see these two reforms passed and ultimately implemented, I cannot help but feel that we have lost two crucial votes for these two vital reforms."

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