Monday March 10, 2008
The dawn of new era in Selangor
THE people of Selangor woke up on Sunday morning to confront a new government for the first time in Malaysian history.
With a majority of seats won over by the former opposition parties, the Selangor can expect a new administration, both at state and local government levels.
|
Derek Fernandez |
The most ostensible change the people will witness is the replacement of the Mentri Besar (MB) and the members of his office.
The new MB will appoint new people. My take is that all the existing councillors in the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) and Subang Jaya Town Council (MPSJ) will be removed, and there are good chances that the new councillors appointed are those who live within the constituencies, said Derek Fernandez, an expert in local government and town planning law.
He said under the Local Govern-ment Act 1976, the appointment of councillors is the prerogative of the MB.
Which meant that political affiliation would not hold weight in the appointment of a councillor, as was the practise in the old regime, added Fernandez.
For instance, Edward Lee (Bukit Gasing assemblyman, DAP) has promised to appoint to the council community leaders and professionals in their own fields, he said.
This would pave the way for local government elections; however, the same Act would have to be amended at the Federal and state levels for it to be possible.
The new MB would have to consult with his legal experts to find out if a unilateral amendment can be made to move for elections at the local government level.
Fernandez believes the appointment of new officers would result in a check on the revenue situation of the council.
The change in the people in office, will follow with structural changes and implementation of policies which may translate to substantial enhancement in the quality of life for the people of Selangor.
I hope there will be transparency which translates to prosperity for all levels of the community in PJ, he said.
Source:
News Poll
- Teacher held for oral sex on Year Two girl
- Lau sought psychiatrist’s help after death of fan’s dad
- Police shoot dead leader of ‘Berong Gang’
- Australian court sentences Malaysian who posed as taxi driver
- Prime Minister comes up with plan to end crisis in MCA
- Fresh polls in six to eight months if new mechanism used
- Eli’s ex still being sought by cops
- Settle RM57, 5As pupil told High scorer can’t collect result slip
- Ong’s political secretary resigns
- The Star goes to Sarawak
- 10 states see increase in number of dengue cases
- Teacher held for oral sex on Year Two girl
- AirAsia launches new flights to three Indian cities
- Australian court sentences Malaysian who posed as taxi driver
- Lau sought psychiatrist’s help after death of fan’s dad
- Prime Minister comes up with plan to end crisis in MCA
- Take care of yourself first
- Police shoot dead leader of ‘Berong Gang’
- Ministry sets eyes on ‘Sealegs’
- MACC accepts court decision


