Tuan Ibrahim: CSA must not become political bargaining chip

Kota Baru: Perikatan Nasional MPs do not require a Confidence and Supply Agreement (CSA) with the government, as their backing for the Budget and bills in Parliament should suffice. PN deputy chairman Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man emphasized the opposition coalition's belief that supporting the Budget and government bills is adequate, without entering a formal agreement.

Tuan Ibrahim, also Pas deputy president, cautioned against making the CSA a new political norm, especially if allocations were granted solely to MPs who signed the document. The government should respect the public's choice and ensure fair distribution of allocations to all constituencies, he said. Tuan Ibrahim warned against using allocations as an incentive to secure political support, noting that leaders have a duty to uphold justice and treat everyone equally.

Opposition MPs have continued to back the Budget and various bills presented by the government, except for a proposed legislation limiting the prime minister's tenure, he added. The proposed legislation did not receive unanimous support from government MPs either. Tuan Ibrahim hoped the government would reconsider its approach and extend allocations to all MPs to bolster the country's democratic system.

He cautioned against allowing the CSA to turn into a means of coercion or inducement for MPs, particularly as the government combats corruption and bribery. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated today that the government is willing to sign a CSA with any opposition MP, not just those from Bersatu, provided there were no conditions attached.

The agreement involving 13 MPs, six from Bersatu and six independent MPs who supported Anwar, was signed yesterday, with Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof representing the government.