Impartiality and parliamentary democracy on show as Speakers walk the talk

KUALA LUMPUR: The new parliament under the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government seems to be sticking to its promise of impartiality and parliamentary democracy, with two major decisions made by the speakers in as many days.
Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof had on Wednesday ejected DAP's Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh for refusing to retract his use of the word "samseng" (gangster) when describing the conduct of some Umno Youth members.
Yesterday, deputy speaker Nga Kor Ming, who was leading the House, made another decision in favour of the opposition when he gave its leader Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi the benefit of the doubt over the latter's use of the word "munafik" (hypocritical).
Ahmad Zahid had, in his motion of thanks on the royal address, explained that munafik are those who 'do not keep to their promises and tell lies when speaking' when commenting on Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's admission that the government's "10 promises in 100 days" was not feasible.
This led to R.S.N. Rayer (BN-Jelutong) to demand the speaker to use his power and ask that Ahmad Zahid retract his statement.
Upon being demanded to provide his explanation before any ruling was made, Ahmad Zahid explained that he was not specifically referring to anyone and that it was merely an advice in general.
Rayer was however not impressed with the explanation, arguing that Ahmad Zahid had clearly made reference to Mahathir.
In reply, Nga said: "I've heard his explanation, and he has said his statement was in general. As such, his statement shall not be deemed as prejudice."
Ahmad Zahid also commended Nga for his stand, saying: "This is an example of a good and fair speaker."
Meanwhile, when met by reporters later at the Parliament lobby, Nga said he was informed that Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad would hold his Cabinet meetings on Fridays whenever parliament is in session to make way for ministers to attend the proceedings.
Cabinet meetings are traditionally held on Wednesdays.
The government came under heavy criticism after it was revealed that almost all its ministers and deputies had left the Dewan Rakyat for the Cabinet meeting when Ahmad Zahid was to give his speech.