DAP: Umno disrespecting the King, Constitution

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Umno is undermining the Federal Constitution and the discretionary powers of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the dissolution of the Dewan Rakyat, said DAP.

The opposition party was commenting on the statement by Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan following the party’s Supreme Council meeting last night that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob would propose a date for the dissolution of the lower house of Parliament to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to pave the way for the 15th General Election this year.

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said never in the history of Malaysia had an open statement been made on the dissolution of the Dewan Rakyat before the prime minister had an audience with the King.

“Umno needs to remember that only 38 members of parliament out of 222 are from the party, which accounts for 17 percent of the House.

Yusof Mat Isa

“They cannot act as they like, as if they command the majority in Parliament,” he said in a statement today.

Loke said it was as if the Umno Supreme Council had issued conditions on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong without considering Articles 40(1) and 40(2) of the Federal Constitution.

Loke said among the discretionary powers accorded to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in Article 40(2) was the right to not consent to the dissolution of Parliament.

The Seremban MP, however, said DAP would respect the decision of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the dissolution of Parliament according to the principles and provisions of the Federal Constitution.

“DAP believes that His Majesty will use his discretion and wisdom to make the best decision for the benefit of the people and the country.” – NST