MELAKA, July 14 — Melaka DAP today announced its withdrawal from the state government in protest against the passage of a Bill allowing the appointment of nominated state assemblymen.
Melaka DAP chairman Khoo Poay Tiong said the party was standing by its principles after all state Pakatan Harapan (PH) assemblymen voted against the Bill, including Kesidang assemblyman Allex Seah Shoo Chin, who serves as a state executive councillor (exco).
“In keeping with the principles of parliamentary democracy, we will withdraw from the Melaka state government,” Khoo told reporters at the State Legislative Assembly in remarks broadcast live on his Facebook page.
“This is because, as a member of the state executive council, Allex should not vote against a motion tabled by the state government.
“However, we remain committed to the democratic principles upheld during the election. Our position has always been clear — we oppose the proposal to appoint nominated assemblymen, and we stand by that principle,” he added.
Khoo said Melaka PH chairman Adly Zahari had also opposed the Bill during the sitting.
Earlier, the Melaka State Legislative Assembly passed amendments to the state constitution paving the way for the appointment of nominated assemblymen despite opposition from PH.
Khoo acknowledged that the state government may want to draw on the expertise of professionals, but said they could instead be appointed as advisers.
“If the state government wants the services of professionals or experts, they can appoint them as advisers instead of nominated assemblymen.
“Once they are appointed as assemblymen, they can sit in the State Legislative Assembly and vote. That goes against the principles of our electoral system, where representatives should be elected by the people,” he said.
Khoo said it would be inconsistent for DAP to remain in the administration after voting against a key government Bill.
“As a responsible party, we cannot reject a government motion and at the same time remain in the government while enjoying the privileges and resources that come with it. That would not be fair,” he said.
He confirmed that Allex, the party’s two deputy executive councillors and the deputy speaker of the Melaka State Legislative Assembly will step down from their posts.
Melaka DAP’s four elected representatives will retain their seats but move to the Opposition bloc.
Dismissing suggestions that the decision was linked to the upcoming Johor state election, Khoo said the party had informed Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh of its position before the Bill was tabled.
