Harapan, BN work out 10-point formula for unity govt

Harapan, BN work out 10-point formula for unity govt


Pakatan Harapan and BN may have worked out a 10-point agreement to form a unity government, amid the political deadlock in the country following the 15th general election (GE15).

The agreement also includes other parties, including from Sabah and Sarawak, to restore the country’s stability and unity, reported the New Straits Times (NST).

According to the daily, the concept dubbed “Kerajaan Perpaduan Malaysia” will promote a well-represented unity government that would last for the next five years.

PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli confirmed to Malaysiakini that the agreement was unveiled today and BN is expected to make a decision on the matter either tonight or tomorrow.

NST reported, quoting sources, that the points of the agreement include not dissolving Parliament before it completes a five-year term, the prime minister (PM)’s post to be held by a Harapan leader, and the deputy prime minister (DPM) to be from BN, while the Perak and Pahang state governments will be helmed by BN leaders.

The agreement also stipulates that cabinet posts among the coalition partners will be based on their seat percentage in the Dewan Rakyat, and the appointment of any BN MPs to the cabinet must be approved by its supreme council first.

In addition, the appointment of Dewan Negara members, main posts in government-linked companies, and other government posts must also be notified and discussed between the PM and DPM, the agreement noted.

As for cabinet positions, the finance, home, rural and regional development, education, and defence portfolios are to be decided by the PM and DPM, and the distribution will be equitable and commensurate with their capabilities and expertise.

The government composition will also include representatives from each party, with senior positions given once talks are concluded, added the report.

According to sources further, the new coalition was optimistic that the Borneo Bloc would lend its strength to Putrajaya to rebuild the nation.

NST quoted separate sources confirming that BN collectively agreed to support a unity government, and the coalition’s chairperson Ahmad Zahid Hamidi relayed this stance during his audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong earlier this morning.

Yesterday, Perikatan Nasional chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin also revealed that the Agong was seeking a unity government.

However, Muhyiddin said he informed the Agong his coalition could not work with Harapan.