Deputy PM Ahmad Zahid says a two-term limit for the prime minister is a “game changer” to prevent leadership fatigue and overstaying in power
PUTRAJAYA: A proposal to limit the prime minister’s tenure to a maximum of 10 years or two terms is a major reform for the country’s governance system.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi described the initiative as a “game changer” capable of bringing significant reforms.
He said the proposal was suggested by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a special Cabinet meeting and agreed to by all members.
Ahmad Zahid stated the term limit is crucial to prevent a leader from holding office for too long, which could lead to leadership fatigue.
“This is a game changer and, in my view, we do not want a Prime Minister to remain in power for too long — in other words, to overstay his or her welcome,” he told reporters.
He added that no matter how good a leader’s performance is, staying too long can lead to a saturation effect.
Ahmad Zahid made these remarks after delivering the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development’s 2026 New Year message.
In his own New Year address, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said a bill to enact the term limit would be presented in the next parliamentary session.
The parliamentary session is scheduled to begin on 19 January.
The tenure limit bill is among four key pieces of legislation to be tabled as part of Parliament’s direction for this year.
