Term Limits for Prime Minister and State Leaders: A Step Towards Good Governance
PETALING JAYA: A coalition of civil society organisations has called for term limits to be applied not only to the prime minister but also to all menteris besar and chief ministers, to ensure democratic consistency across all government levels.
Support for Two-Term Limit
The CSO Platform for Reform voiced its support for the proposal to cap the prime minister’s tenure at two terms or a maximum of 10 years, saying that leadership renewal is crucial to preventing excessive power consolidation. "This reform will curb entrenched political dominance, encourage leadership succession, and strengthen the overall democratic framework of the nation," it said in a statement today.
Call for Unity Among Political Parties
The coalition also called for all political parties to set aside their differences and support the proposal. "We urge all political parties to demonstrate their commitment to good governance by supporting term limits at both the federal and state levels," the coalition said.
Warning Against Prolonged Tenures
It also warned that prolonged tenures – whether at the federal or state level – could lead to the concentration of power, weaken institutional checks and balances, and hinder the emergence of new leadership. "Implementing a two-term limit will promote more accountable, transparent, and dynamic governance while ensuring that no single individual wields unchecked authority for too long," it said.
Background of the Proposal
The proposal to enforce a two-term limit for the prime ministership gained traction after DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook raised it during the party’s national congress on Sunday. Loke pointed out that the proposal was part of Pakatan Harapan’s manifesto for the 15th general election (GE15).
Prime Minister’s Response
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim responded positively to the proposal, affirming his support but said that consensus among political parties was necessary to ensure such a proposal would be passed in Parliament.
Mixed Reactions
However, the proposal has drawn mixed reactions, including from Bachok MP Syahir Sulaiman of PAS who said that the topic is open for discussion but advocated that the prime minister’s position be reserved for Muslims.
Conclusion
The proposal to introduce term limits for the prime minister and state leaders is a step towards good governance, transparency, and accountability. It is essential to ensure that no single individual wields too much power and that leadership succession is encouraged. It is crucial for all political parties to come together and support this proposal to ensure a more democratic and just society.
FAQs
Q: What is the proposal to introduce term limits for the prime minister and state leaders?
A: The proposal is to cap the prime minister’s tenure at two terms or a maximum of 10 years, and to apply the same rule to all menteris besar and chief ministers.
Q: What are the benefits of introducing term limits?
A: The benefits include preventing excessive power consolidation, encouraging leadership succession, and strengthening the overall democratic framework of the nation.
Q: What is the current stance of the Prime Minister on this proposal?
A: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has expressed support for the proposal but emphasized the need for consensus among political parties to ensure its passage in Parliament.