The government is proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the Prime Minister’s tenure to two terms, a move aimed at preventing power concentration and abuse.
PUTRAJAYA: The government’s move to introduce a bill limiting the Prime Minister’s tenure is rooted in the principle that “nobody is indispensable,” said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
She said Malaysia, with over 34 million people, has many capable leaders and must prevent power from being concentrated in one individual for too long.
“If someone is a great leader, they should leave behind a succession plan,” she said at a town hall session on the proposed bill.
Azalina stressed the bill is not intended to restrict individuals but to strengthen governance and prevent abuse of power.
“It’s about not allowing someone to abuse power, about preventing the mindset of being ‘untouchable’,” she added.
She noted that former leaders can continue contributing as senior ministers or advisers after stepping down.
Azalina emphasised the Prime Minister’s post remains one of the most powerful under the Federal Constitution, necessitating institutional safeguards.
“I hope everybody understands it’s not so much about not trusting, but it’s more because the position is very powerful,” she said.
She confirmed the bill will involve a constitutional amendment, which she hopes to table during the current Parliament sitting.
However, lawmakers must first agree on key aspects, including the precise definition of the term limit.
Discussions are needed on whether the limit should be two terms or capped at 10 years.
Further talks will cover enforcement, including if the limit applies retrospectively or prospectively.
The issue of whether it covers only consecutive terms or also non-consecutive terms served at different periods also needs resolution.
“I will present the policy decision. If approved by the Cabinet and formulated as a constitutional amendment, I will table it to all Members of Parliament by bloc,” Azalina said.
