Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof speaking to reporters in Kuching. - ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star
KUCHING: The Opposition should propose the recommendations in the new draft of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on allocations for its MPs, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the current draft was the basis for discussions with the Opposition on the matter.
"If they want a new draft, then they have to give us their feedback," he told reporters after opening a conference on social security management here on Thursday (Sept 19).
Fadillah, who is the unity government's chief whip, added that the Federal Government accepted Perikatan Nasional's decision to reject the MOU.
"They have issued a statement saying they reject the MOU, so we respect their decision.
"So far they have not contacted me about it," he said.
ALSO READ: Fadillah releases MOU contents following Perikatan criticisms
On Wednesday (Sept 18), Perikatan chief whip Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan called on the government to prepare a new MOU draft and set up a special committee to discuss it.
He said the Opposition would not move forward with any discussion on constituency-based allocations as long as it was based on the current draft.
This comes after Fadillah released two drafts of the MOU on Monday (Sept 16) in response to the Opposition's rejection of the MOU.
Fadillah said both drafts spelt out the government's obligations that recognise the Opposition MPs’ important role as the Opposition through displaying loyalty to the country, Federal Constitution and royal institution as well as acting as a responsible and legitimate check-and-balance.
The MOU also requires Perikatan MPs to provide credible responses or alternative policies in Parliament and refrain from sowing hatred, discrimination or violence as a form of political expression.
ALSO READ: Expected counter-proposals, but I respect the Opposition's rejection, says Fadillah
In return, the government is obligated to protect the rights and privileges of Opposition MPs in Parliament and to give them access to constituency development funds.
On Sept 15, Opposition chief Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin said Perikatan unanimously rejected the draft MOU because it appeared to conflict with the Federal Constitution, particularly its potential impact on Malay and bumiputra special rights.
He also said the MOU contradicted cultural, moral and religious principles, could lead to abuse of power and seemingly curtailed democratic freedoms.
