'Speaker to recuse himself if opposition challenges decision on Guan Eng'

Dewan Rakyat speaker Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof will recuse himself from chairing an upcoming sitting if it involves challenging his decision not to refer Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng to the parliamentary Rights and Privileges Committee.

This has been confirmed by opposition leader Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who said the speaker had stated that he would not chair the house if the matter is being debated in the next sitting, which is slated to commence in October.

Yesterday, Ariff ruled that Lim did not mislead the House when he claimed goods and services tax (GST) refunds had been stolen by the previous administration. The move infuriated opposition lawmakers, who staged a walkout.

Ismail Sabri told the media at the Parliament lobby today that he will bring up a motion to challenge Ariff's ruling on the matter.

Earlier today, Ismail Sabri reportedly raised the issue in the House again and asked if Ariff's son worked for Lim as his press secretary.

Ariff admitted that, but insisted that he acted independently when he made the ruling.

"The speaker told us that he would not chair the sitting. This is because when we did not agree with his ruling, definitely he will recuse himself from chairing the sitting (when we challenge his ruling,)" Ismail Sabri told the media.

Ismail Sabri said the matter can only be raised in the next sitting.

Meanwhile, he said he would also submit another motion for the House to debate the PAC's report on GST refunds.

[More to follow]  - Mkini