Confidence pact loosens BN’s hold on Anwar’s govt, say analysts

Political analysts argue that the confidence and supply agreement between the Anwar Ibrahim government and seven opposition MPs will reduce the coalition's reliance on Barisan Nasional (BN), according to the report. Syaza Shukri of International Islamic University of Malaysia asserts that Anwar's government possesses sufficient support in the Dewan Rakyat to continue until its term ends, even if BN were to withdraw its support.

She explains that this agreement serves as a long-term strategy to demonstrate the government's unwavering stance and autonomy from BN. Moreover, it aims to bolster the legitimacy of the current government, potentially preventing calls for an early election. The coalition, comprising Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional, and several minor parties, commands 143 seats in the Dewan Rakyat.

In the agreement, the federal coalition committed to two key reforms: capping the prime minister's tenure and separating the roles of the attorney-general and public prosecutor. The opposition MPs, in return, pledged support for the Anwar government until the parliamentary term's conclusion and assistance in approving the 2007 budget.

Tawfik Yaakub, a Universiti Malaya political analyst, suggests that the agreement might also be a tactic for the coalition to expand its political support in Parliament. However, this move could potentially complicate relations between Umno and Pakatan Harapan, as Umno's grassroots have exhibited discomfort with the PH, particularly the DAP.