PUTRAJAYA: The incoming prime minister must be reform-minded and introduce changes for the sake of the country and its people's future, says Transparency International – Malaysia.
Failing to introduce reforms would risk the leader being punished in the next general election, said TI-Malaysia president Dr Muhammad Mohan.
TI-Malaysia listed six reform proposals, including a term limit for the prime minister, deputy prime minister and chief ministers.
“We also propose the tabling of a Political Financing Bill, Asset Declaration Bill and Independent Police Complaints and Monitoring Commission in Parliament.
“The new prime minister should also separate the roles of the Attorney General and Public Prosecutor, where the Public Prosecutor has to be appointed by Parliament and his tenure of office is fixed,” Muhammad said on Wednesday (Aug 18).
TI-Malaysia also proposed that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s independence be increased by elevating it to a constitutional body, where its chief commissioner’s appointment is also by Parliament and his tenure is fixed as well.
“The new prime minister must also see that a law is tabled to ensure key public officers and heads of GLCs are appointed transparently and prevent elected representatives or their immediate families from holding these positions,” he added.
TI-Malaysia said reforms to prevent abuse of power in the state and federal machinery, as well as law enforcement, should also be made.
“TI-Malaysia believes that it is of utmost importance, for the stability and successful navigation of the government through the rough waters of the pandemic until the 15th General Election, that the candidate for prime minister must be a lawmaker who is bipartisan and ready to unite the people.
“He must also command the support of the majority of parliament (as required by the Federal Constitution), be supported by East and West Malaysian lawmakers, and free from corruption and criminal charges,” said Muhammad.