Muhyiddin confident PM will discuss future appointments

Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin believes that Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will discuss any future appointments with his government before announcing them to the public.

Mahathir previously admitted that he had unilaterally chosen Latheefa Koya as the new MACC chief without discussing it with his Cabinet, as he wanted to be “free” to make the call without being restricted by their opinions.

Maintaining that the appointment was indeed in line with the law and the Federal Constitution, Muhyiddin nevertheless expressed the view that some prior discussion should have been held.

“It is the prerogative of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (to appoint the MACC chief) on the advice of the PM.

“However, from a political point of view, it would have been good if there was some discussion (beforehand), like what several Pakatan Harapan leaders have said.

“But for me, it is okay. This has been a good experience. Moving forward, I am confident the PM will discuss other appointments with top Harapan leaders so that they, too, will know and understand.

“But, of course, the final decision is for the PM to advise the Agong (on these appointments).

“This is in line with the Constitution and should not be disputed,” Muhyiddin, who is also home minister, said when asked about the issue during a press conference at his Hari Raya Open House in Pagoh today.

The press conference was aired live through his official Facebook page.

Follow manifesto promises

Elaborating, Muhyiddin opined that future appointments ought to be in line with Harapan’s election manifesto.

The manifesto had specifically promised an end to political appointees and to put major appointments through a parliamentary special select committee.

“We ought to fulfil the pledges listed in our manifesto, because they are promises.

“But sometimes because (the government) is still new, we forget to pay attention to these things,” Muhyiddin said.

Earlier today, PKR president Anwar Ibrahim urged Mahathir to explain why the Cabinet was not informed of Latheefa’s appointment as well as why the move had violated the manifesto.