KUCHING, Nov 26: Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) member Michael Kong Feng Nian has urged the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar to officially announce the appointment of a new Opposition leader in the august House.
He noted that Asfia has previously announced that Parti Sarawak Bersatu (PSB) president Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh is no longer the Opposition after his party pledged support for Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
“Despite this vacancy (of the Opposition leader), it is regretted that the Speaker has yet to officially announce the appointment of an Opposition leader in the DUN.
“This raises concerns about the adherence to established norms within the framework of a Westminster parliamentary system. The absence of an Opposition Leader denies citizens the full spectrum of representation and discourse, crucial for a healthy democratic process,” Kong said in a statement today,
Kong who is also the special assistant to Sarawak DAP chairman Chong Chieng Jen, further said the recognition of the Opposition leader should also extend beyond a nominal title.
“It should encompass tangible support, such as office allocation and staff, to empower effective scrutiny of government policies and actions. This is not a mere symbolism but a fundamental tenet of a functioning democracy.
“As such, I urge the Speaker to look into the matter and make the appointment of an opposition leader and provide him/her with the necessary resources a priority.
“It is imperative that we safeguard the integrity of our parliamentary system, ensuring that every voice, regardless of its stance, is given due recognition and resources to fulfil its democratic responsibilities,” he added.
On Nov 18, Asfia announced that Wong is no longer the Opposition leader in the august House simply because they are no longer playing the role of Opposition.
Presently, GPS occupies 76 out of 82 seats in the august House, while the remaining six seats are represented by DAP’s Chong Chieng Jen for Padungan and Violet Yong Wui Wui (Pending); PSB’s Johnichal Rayong Ngipa (Engkilili), Wong Soon Koh (Bawang Assan), and Baru Bian (Ba’ Kelalan); and Independent member See Chee How (Batu Lintang). — DayakDaily
