Today, the Malaysian parliament witnesses yet again another onslaught on parliamentary democracy. After subjecting the Opposition Leader to the Rights and Privileges Committee for his exposure on BN Government’s contractual ties with APCO, any semblance of a fair proceeding was further tarnished by denying the Opposition Leader his right to counsel. In addition to that, other Members of parliament were also denied access to the proceedings though convention clearly states the formal practice of allowing us to be presence during such deliberations. What better way to safeguard and demonstrate parliamentary democracy in action than through openly disclosing the Rights and Privileges Committee’s process at work?
The denial today again lends credence to authoritarian tendencies by certain parties, which smacks of bipartisanship and will further discourage other members of Parliament from speaking out on any issues without fear or favour.
I reiterate the need for the Rights and Privileges Committee to respect democracy by reaching the fullest standards of transparency and natural justice in the case involving the Opposition Leader.At the very least, it is crucial that the Opposition Leader and his counsel be present during the investigation stage, including in the sessions involving APCO representatives to ensure they are not only being just, but also seen to do so.
If not, why bother with a committee at all.
