The never-ending political crisis of our country has indeed reached a dire situation. The rise of the #BenderaHitam campaign on social media topped off with UMNO’s decision to retract support for Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has catalysed various individuals, parties and organisations to support the current PM’s resignation. However, in Malaysia’s Game of Thrones, there is definitely going to be the next question of, “Who’s going to be the next PM of Malaysia?”
There is definitely a lot of opinions making their rounds on social media but the one that stood out the most was a petition lobbying for Rafidah Aziz to be made an interim Prime Minister. Yes, the former international trade and industry minister!
Who could forget, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz? Often dubbed as Malaysia’s Iron Lady, Rafidah Aziz’s was infamous for “battling” with the likes of former US Trade Secretary, Charlene Barshefsky and Secretary of State, Madeline Albright. She has been credited for having opened the country to foreign investments, reducing trade barriers all while being involved in tough trade negotiations and free trade agreements.
The petition on Change.org states that, “Malaysia needs an interim administration to replace the hopeless and incompetent Perikatan regime until the next election date in 2023. This interim administration will be formed from a team of professionals to tackle the issues of Covid, economic growth, alleviation of poverty and unemployment, plus laying the groundwork for the general elections in 2023. The interim administration will consist mainly of pro bono workers, people with the objective of doing national service for 2 years. They must not have any ongoing political affiliation, and must openly reject corruption and nepotism. The interim administration needs a firm leader, one with little or no baggage, no current political affiliation nor affiliation through family ties. The leader must have a proven track record in administration, working with the civil service, commanding its respect. He/she must have some international exposure to attract DFI. THE ONLY INDIVIDUAL FOR THE JOB IS TAN SRI RAFIDAH AZIZ. We need to encourage her to assume the post, and give her the power to form her team. No need to attach conditions for this position. The country is in dire need of help from the outside.”
As of now (10th July, 2:55pm) the petition has over 31k signatures and was started by Willy Lim. According to the Federal Constitution, Article 43(2)(a) stipulates that a prime minister must be an MP who the King feels is likely to command the confidence of the majority in the Dewan Rakyat. The only way, at best, that Rafidah Aziz could be made a minister, is if she’s appointed as a senator. Previously, in 1974, she was appointed as a senator before resigning to contest in the general election in 1978. Article 45 (3) and (3A) of the Federal Constitution states that one can be a senator for two continuous three-year terms or a maximum of six years.
In the meantime, another petition regarding the current Minister of International Trade and Industry, Azmin Ali made its rounds in a similar fashion. This petition was made by the user, #KerajaanGagal and has been signed by 245,504 people as of 10th July, 3:48pm. The description reads, “Hanya satu sebab: gagal berfungsi sebagai Menteri Kanan yang diharapkan. Titik!” which translates to, “Only one reason: failure to function as a Senior Minister. Full stop!”
Nevertheless, regardless of the current political situation and the future interim PM, let’s just hope for the best and give an equal focus on the ongoing battle with Covid-19. Stay safe and vigilant at all times!
Source: MSN via Free Malaysia Today
