Thursday, May 10, 2018

Lawyer: Dr M only needs support of MPs to be PM

The Star Online

KUALA LUMPUR: A senior lawyer agreed with Prime Minister-designate Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's interpretation that he can lead the country with the majority support of Members of Parliament (MPs).

Datuk Roger Tan (pic) said Article 43(2)(a) of the Federal Constitution refers to a member of parliament – not the party or coalition of the majority of the MPs.

"Since all the Pakatan MPs have signed a written declaration to support Tun Mahathir, it is hoped that all government institutions will immediately give effect to the sacrosanct will of the people expressed through the ballot box," he said.

Pakatan Harapan has asked the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V to swear Dr Mahathir as the 7th Prime Minister by Thursday evening.

Dr Mahathir said he had the support of 135 MPs, surpassing the 112 needed for a simple majority.

His remarks come after outgoing prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said he accepted "the will of the people" but stopped short of admitting defeat.

Dr Mahathir said that four parties in the coalition have also "written to the King, asking for a swearing-in ceremony to take place the sooner". 

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