The big question of the legality of announcing the RM250 Billion Economic Aid Package.
Malaysia is going through challenging times. Be it economically or politically. We are witnessing something that has not been experienced before on both fronts. The threat of the Covid-19 virus which is tearing down our economy and the livelihood of Malaysians, and the formation of the PN federal government through the backdoor is something new to all of us.
The Backdoor Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yasin announced an RM250 billion economic aid for the country. In times such as this, there is no doubt that the government of the day is responsible to drive measures in saving the country from collapse.
However, one big question in my mind that arises out of the announcement is the legality of announcing the RM250 Billion Economic Aid Package.
The current backdoor government is yet to be approved by Parliament. Yes, I am aware of the fact that the YDPA has appointed Tan Sri Muhyiddin to become the Prime Minister and has also approved of his cabinet. However, we must remember that Parliament is the ultimate decision-maker in a democratic country. The current backdoor PM has delayed parliament meeting and effectively his vote of confidence.
Every budget must also go through Parliamentary debates and approval. I would think that this is the first time in Malaysian history where RM250 billion is spent without Parliamentary approval and by a PM that is facing a vote of no confidence in Parliament.
At the outset, the backdoor PM has also failed to show Malaysians the number of MPs that is supporting him. The number thus far has only proven that he does not have the majority. The legitimacy of the current government is in huge doubt. The PM himself had also admitted in his RM250 billion package speech that his government is not what we voted for.
I do understand that Malaysians from all walk of life is in dire need of assistance from the government in these troubling times. RM1,600 in cash aid and many other goodies will surely help many poor Malaysians make it through this crisis. However, this cannot override the legality in addressing the situation. Parliament is there for a reason. In many countries around the world, economic packages to aid its citizens are being debated and approved in Parliament.
Parliament can ensure that proper debates are carried out and as a check and balance so that misuse of the funds could be minimised. Accountability must be established, and I do not trust some backdoor PM with such a huge sum of money.
It is in an emergency and troubling times such as these that Malaysians should keep a close eye on the government for possible abuse of power.
Sudhagaran Stanley is an anti-corruption and good governance activist. He writes in his personal capacity.