DAP rep submits motion to limit Penang CM’s term

A DAP assemblyperson today submitted a notice of motion for the amendment of the Penang state constitution to limit the Penang chief minister's term.

Tanjong Bungah assemblyperson Teh Yee Cheu said the motion was submitted to the office of the State Legislative Assembly speaker to be studied by the constitution committee before being tabled in the next state assembly sitting.

"This is the official letter. The previous one (motion) is all preliminary debating, exchange of information and to have a better understanding from everyone on whether oppose or agree.

"Today, I believe this is the time to submit this motion since we have debated this issue for the last two or three years in the August House. Enough time for everyone to think about.

"I believe it's necessary to promote good governance or even credibility, accountability and transparency," Teh told a press conference after the handing over at Tun Abdul Razak Complex (Komtar) in George Town.

In the state assembly sitting on Nov 10, 2014, Teh had proposed for the rotation of the Penang chief minister's post and to limit the tenure to two terms in order to give other capable leaders a chance to serve.

However, the motion was rejected after getting mixed reactions from the assemblypersons.

Teh said the motion was not politically motivated, but it was for the interest of the people.

In fact, countries that are practising the rotation system, like Thailand as well as Trinidad and Tobago, are more developed and successful, he added.

- Bernama