Deaf mutes on the government back bench

Can MPs really represent the people if they also hanker for government appointments?

COMMENT

By T.K. Chua

We often hear of criticisms against the judiciary for not jealously guarding its independence but the role of the legislature is largely overlooked.

While most opposition MPs are vociferous, those from the back benches of the ruling coalition are generally restricted to supporting the executive branch and passing bills and motions presented to the House. Rarely do we hear them articulating policies, highlighting malfeasance or championing causes of the people. It is as if, once the general election is over, backbenchers are relegated to being an instrument for the executive branch to “toy” with.

Backbenchers are expected to support the government, but are they supposed to do so blindly and doggedly? Where is the oversight, advice, suggestions and monitoring they are supposed to provide on the executive branch, including government departments, agencies and GLCs?

As people’s representatives, we expect them to provide services to their constituents and also to relay opinions and concerns of their constituents. Some backbenchers also sit on parliamentary committees to consider important issues in greater detail. But how often have we heard from them some earth-shattering suggestions, opinions or proposals?

More often than not, their views are so mundane, predictable, and archaic, which any ordinary Malaysian would be able to provide.

As I see it, there are reasons why our backbenchers are becoming so docile and useless.

First, given the size of the front bench, many have aspired to the join their ranks. Being critical of the executive branch and other government agencies may jeopardise their chances.

Second, if some of these backbenchers are heavily involved in businesses or government contracts, their effectiveness, too, would be compromised. Most businesses need the approval and support of government agencies and the executive branch. Being overtly critical of government policies and performance may do them more harm than good.

Third, more and more backbenchers are being appointed as heads of government agencies, becoming chairmen of statutory bodies, public enterprises, government sponsored NGOs, and GLCs. If this trend continues, I think there will be no “real” backbenchers left. It is time to do a study to find out how many of the backbenchers from BN are strictly MPs without holding any other positions in the government.

Can a backbencher speak up without fear and favour when he is also a chairman of an agency that pays him RM30,000 a month, with car, entertainment expenses, medical and other privileges all thrown in? We can’t solve problems by ignoring the fundamentals. We should stop pretending, starting now.

T.K. Chua is an FMT reader