Will abuses of power return with Parliament locked down?

Question

Accepted Answer

Abuses of Power Could Re-emerge if Parliamentary Oversight is Suspended

The truncation of parliamentary proceedings, specifically the one-day sitting scheduled for May 18, raises concerns about the potential for a return of abuses of power, corruption, kleptocracy, and human rights violations. This stems from the argument that suspending parliamentary oversight and scrutiny of the government could create an environment where such malpractices can occur unchecked. The argument posits that this action, which has been described as a panic reaction to a no-confidence motion, violates established Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders.
Violation of Parliamentary Standing Orders

The decision to shorten the parliamentary meeting to a single day has been explicitly linked to a violation of the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders. This procedural deviation, according to DAP's Lim Kit Siang, is a direct consequence of Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's response to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's no-confidence motion. The implication is that such a move circumvents the established rules governing parliamentary conduct and debate, potentially setting a precedent for future actions that undermine legislative processes.
Erosion of Government Scrutiny

A significant concern arising from the shortened parliamentary session is the erosion of the government's accountability through scrutiny. Parliament serves as a crucial check on executive power, providing a platform for the Opposition and other members to question government policies, expenditures, and actions. By limiting the time available for these discussions, the ability of lawmakers to thoroughly examine the Perikatan Nasional administration's response to critical issues, such as the Covid-19 crisis, is significantly diminished. This reduction in oversight could create a vacuum where potential wrongdoings may go unnoticed or unchallenged.
Historical Context of Abuses of Power

Historically, in various political systems, periods of weakened legislative oversight have sometimes coincided with an increase in abuses of power. When parliamentary or congressional bodies are sidelined, or their functions are unduly curtailed, it can create opportunities for unchecked executive actions, corruption, and the erosion of democratic norms. The concern is that a prolonged "lockdown" of parliamentary functions, even if framed for reasons such as public health, could inadvertently facilitate a return to practices where power is misused for personal or political gain, undermining public trust and good governance.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Will abuses of power return with Parliament locked down?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends