Azmin slams MoU proposal, warns Opposition could be treated as beggars

KLUANG – Opposition members would be akin to beggars if Perikatan Nasional (PN) signs a memorandum of understanding (MoU) concerning allocations for their representatives.

PN Information Chief Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali claimed that Opposition representatives would be bound by conditions that would prevent them from continuing to speak out for the people’s interests.

He questioned where the Unity Government places the value of democracy and a thriving political system in the country.

"Look at the MoU offered to Opposition Members of Parliament.

"Are we beggars asking for handouts? Are we to be treated this way and have our voices suppressed in Parliament?

"Yet, it was the people who elected us through a transparent and open democratic system.

"We won big in the last general election and we speak out in Parliament for the people and the nation," he questioned during a ceramah at the Taman Ilham Polling District Centre (PDM) here on Wednesday.

Last Sunday, PN unanimously decided to reject the MoU regarding the Opposition’s allocation proposed by the government.

Opposition leader, Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin said the rejection was made because it contradicts the Federal Constitution; clashes with cultural, moral and religious values; could lead to misinterpretation and abuse of power; and restricts freedom.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that the government is open to renegotiating the MoU concerning the Opposition’s allocation if necessary.