KUALA LUMPUR – Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul denies allegations that he is biased towards certain MPs, insisting that decisions he makes in Parliament are in accordance with Standing Orders, rules, and procedures, as well as advice from his legal team.
Responding to Datuk Awang Hashim’s (Pendang–PN) attempt to address threats allegedly received from Bukit Gantang MP Datuk Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal, Johari insisted on the submission of a formal motion for discussion.
He said he cannot be lenient to certain MPs and accept their motions without notice, while rejecting similar motions submitted by other MPs, if all the said motions failed to adhere to the rules.
“We are friends, but when I am seated here, I lose all my friends. I must follow the rules,” Johari said in the Dewan Rakyat today.
“I must ensure that (I give what the rakyat wants) the rakyat wants productivity (in the Dewan Rakyat). If I entertain all MPs (to speak without first filing a motion), I cannot do that. That would not be fair. That is why I must be strict.”
Awang accused Johari of bias, alleging differential treatment compared to Mohd Sany Hamzan (Hulu Langat–PH). Johari reiterated the need for adherence to parliamentary rules.
Later, while addressing Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau (Tuaran-PH), Johari emphasised the importance of obeying rules and procedures, citing the necessity of motions being submitted 24 hours before the session.
“The motion must be submitted more than 24 hours before the Parliament session. It is not fair (if I accept the motion) because I have rejected the rest. If the rules stated (maximum) 300 words (in a motion), then please follow that rule too. I must follow what is stated in the rules and procedures, if not, I would be contested,” Johari added.
Lawmakers, including Awang, Tangau, Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim (Arau–PN), and Datuk Ahmad Yunus Hairi (Kuala Langat–PN), were instructed to resubmit their motions following initial rejections by the Speaker. – November 30, 2023