GPS rejects Bill for alliance freedom

KUCHING: The Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) has opted to refrain from supporting a bill that aims to ensure the stability of the federal government for its full term.

This decision, as explained by James Chin, a political analyst from the University of Tasmania, is to maintain their independence from being tied to specific allies in Putrajaya.

Chin said that both GPS and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah are aiming for the ability to adjust their alliances with political groups in Peninsular Malaysia.

“You always want flexibility because that allows you to negotiate among partners. If you’re not satisfied with the Prime Minister, you’d look for another political partner who offers a better deal,” he said, as reported by Free Malaysia Today.

Chin further mentioned that Sarawak and Sabah are in pursuit of political stability, but with the caveat of retaining their negotiation power, especially concerning the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

This commentary from Chin follows the statement of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who voiced his opposition to the proposed bill. He argued that it contradicts the principle of freedom of choice.

This opposition was in response to Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s call for a bill to empower an elected government to operate without threats from political adversaries.

Conversely, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently downplayed the urgency of a Fixed-term Parliament Act, saying it is not a priority.

On this matter, Council of Professors fellow Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir said that the Premier’s opposition is not about losing political alliance flexibility. Instead, it concerns the potential impact on democracy.

“The act could be seen as limiting the ability to hold the government accountable and make necessary changes,” he said.

Jeniri added that the law wouldn’t affect GPS’s position, as the party already plays a crucial role as a “kingmaker” in determining the country’s governing coalition.