By Adrian Lim
KUCHING, Aug 19: Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the support for Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob from 54 MPs of the coalition as the country’s next prime ministry came with the condition that the latter cannot appoint those who have criminal charges pending as members of the Cabinet.
Muhyiddin, who is currently the caretaker prime minister, said he had also discussed with Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and Sabah Unity Party (PBS) that were part of the PN government before agreeing to support Ismail Sabri, who is Umno’s vice president, to become the ninth premier.
“If appointed as the prime minister by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, he (Ismail Sabri) must ensure that the Cabinet members who will be appointed later are those with integrity, are trustworthy and free from any criminal charges in court.
“The PN government under his leadership must also continue the practice of respecting the principle of separation of powers, protecting the independence of the judiciary and upholding the concept of a constitutional monarch,” he said in a press statement.
Muhyiddin, who is Pagah MP, said he will continue to serve the people and prepare the party for the 15th General Election when the time comes.
“I hope the process of appointing the new prime minister will proceed smoothly and be finalised soon, in accordance with the requirements of the Federal Constitution,” he said.
Muhyiddin disclosed that PN has unanimously agreed to nominate Ismail Sabri as the candidate for the prime minister’s post to ensure continuity of the previous ruling coalition’s policies. — DayakDaily
