Amendments to federal constitution proves PH’s commitment to institutional reform

The upcoming amendments to the Federal Constitution that would pave the way to the separation of powers between the Attorney-General and public prosecutor and the limitation of prime minister’s tenure two terms, equivalent to 10 years, proves Pakatan Harapan’s (PH) commitment to institutional reform, said DAP deputy chairman Nga Kor Ming.

“The first amendment concerns the separation of powers between the attorney-general and the public prosecutor. The second limits the prime minister’s term to a maximum of 10 years,” said Nga after attending a Chinese New Year celebration organised by the Perak Chinese Assembly Hall

“Both amendments will be presented for the second and third readings and are expected to be passed on March 2 and 3,” he said.

The first reading of the amendment will be tabled tomorrow.

“Previously, only countries with presidential systems, such as the United States, Indonesia, Taiwan and the Philippines, have term limits for their leaders,” Nga who is also Housing and Local Government Minister.

“But under the parliamentary system, Malaysia will be the first. This demonstrates that PH is fulfilling its promises,” he said.

Nga said the separation of the attorney-general’s and public prosecutor’s powers would prevent abuse of power.

“The attorney-general will continue to serve as the government’s legal adviser, while the public prosecutor will have a dedicated office to handle prosecution matters.

“This office will decide whether a case should proceed, be filed as a civil suit or be withdrawn, under Article 145(3) of the Federal Constitution.

“The Attorney-General’s Chambers will focus solely on advising the government. With this reform, conflicts of interest between the two offices will be eliminated.

“This is another PH manifesto promise fulfilled. Institutional reform is gaining momentum. This is already the fourth constitutional amendment under the Madani Government,” he said.

The amendments are also vital in determining whether the DAP would continue being part of the Madani government or limit itself to being backbenchers.

The party would be deciding on that in a special convention later this year.