Tok Mat calls for snap polls to end political uncertainty

(FMT) – Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan today urged Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin to dissolve Parliament to make way for a snap election in light of the current political uncertainty.

In a statement, he said neighbouring Singapore had called for an election to ensure a clear mandate for the ruling government.

“Malaysia has not had a political situation of such uncertainty since independence,” he said, adding that the country’s prosperity and competitive edge depended on political stability.

He added that political stability influenced many matters including investments, economic activities and social harmony.

“The present situation makes it difficult for the government to pass critical bills including the national budget to help the country recover from the economic decline,” he said.

His is the latest in a series of calls, including from Umno leaders, for a snap election to resolve the political situation in the country as the Perikatan Nasional coalition continues to hold on to power by a razor-thin margin in Parliament.

Mohamad, popularly known as Tok Mat, said efforts to restore the economy, create jobs and boost competitiveness required a stable government and a Parliament which could provide checks and balance.

“The country cannot continue to be dragged into uncertainty and the possibility of a change of government every few months. This is not healthy.

“Only a government with a comfortable mandate and majority in Parliament can function well and focus on ensuring the country’s recovery from the unprecedented challenges we are now face.”

Adding that Malaysia was a parliamentary democracy, he said true power lay with the people and not with blocs formed on the whims and fancies of politicians.

“Give the power back to the people and let them decide the way forward for our beloved nation,” he said.