Debate CSA Based On Facts, Not 'Strong' Labels - Adly

MELAKA, Nov 4 (Bernama) -- Debate on the Confidence and Supply Agreement (CSA) should be based on facts and the contents of the document, rather than the use of certain labels, said Melaka Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Adly Zahari.

Commenting on PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang's statement linking the agreement to a 'Dajjal approach', he said any differences in political views should be supported by mature arguments.

"Differences in views on political arrangements should be addressed through arguments and scrutiny of their contents. Using such a strong label does not, in itself, make an argument more compelling.

"If there are any unfair clauses in the CSA, identify them. If people's rights have been denied, provide the evidence. Melaka PH welcomes constructive criticism and open scrutiny," he said at PH's daily press conference in conjunction with the 16th Melaka State Election here today.

He agreed that national revenue belonged to the people and that public welfare should not be conditional on political support. However, he said this principle should be distinguished from an understanding of cooperation between the government and opposition to ensure the stability of the country's administration.

Adly, who is also Deputy Defence Minister, said cross-party cooperation for administrative stability was not a new practice that had only emerged under the PH-led administration.

He cited the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Transformation and Political Stability on Sept 13, 2021, during the administration of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, which was also supported by the PAS leadership at the time.

"At the time, PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan described political cooperation, including the MoU, as a development that could benefit the country and the people.

"Surely, the people have the right to ask what has changed in principle, or whether it is merely PAS's position in the government that has changed?" he asked.

Adly said he respected Abdul Hadi's standing as a religious figure and political leader, but hoped that discussions on political stability would be approached with greater care and thoughtfulness.

Yesterday, Abdul Hadi, in a social media post, described the CSA as a Dajjal-like approach in the end times, whereby power was no longer regarded as a trust that must be exercised for everyone, but rather as something to be used to stay in power.

On Oct 29, the MADANI Government signed a CSA with six Bersatu MPs led by its president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, as well as seven other MPs, including Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman.

Besides the commitment to support the passage of the Supply Bill 2027 (Budget 2027), the CSA also stipulates support for the government's institutional reform agenda.

These include proposals to limit the Prime Minister's tenure to a maximum of two terms and to separate the powers of the Attorney-General and the Public Prosecutor.

-- BERNAMA