Why did opposition MPs deem the RCI report debate premature?

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Opposition MPs Walked Out Over Prime Minister's Absence During Tabung Haji RCI Report Debate

Opposition lawmakers staged a walkout during a special parliamentary sitting concerning the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) report on Tabung Haji. This action was prompted by their assertion that the debate was premature without Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim present. Kota Bharu MP Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan articulated this sentiment, stating that proceeding with the discussion in the Prime Minister's absence would render the parliamentary session ineffective, akin to merely holding a press conference.
Absence of Prime Minister Cited as Reason for Walkout

The primary reason cited by opposition MPs for their departure was the absence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Takiyuddin Hassan, who also serves as the Opposition’s chief whip, argued that the parliamentary sitting should have been postponed until the Prime Minister had recovered and resumed his official duties. This indicates a belief that the Prime Minister's participation was crucial for a substantive debate on the Tabung Haji RCI report.
Prime Minister's Medical Leave Affecting Parliamentary Proceedings

The Prime Minister is currently on medical leave to undergo physiotherapy treatment following an elective laparoscopic surgery to address a para-umbilical hernia. This medical situation directly impacted the parliamentary proceedings, leading to the opposition's objection to proceeding with the debate in his stead. The absence of the nation's leader was deemed a significant factor by the opposition in their decision to boycott the session.
Opposition Views Debate Without PM as Inconsequential

Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan explicitly stated that debating the RCI report without the Prime Minister would be "just as good as doing a press conference." This sentiment underscores the opposition's view that a parliamentary debate requires the presence of key leadership figures to be meaningful and impactful. Without the Prime Minister, they perceived the discussion to lack the necessary authority and gravitas, rendering it a mere formality rather than a genuine legislative engagement.

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Why did opposition MPs deem the RCI report debate premature?

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