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KUALA LUMPUR – Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said BN’s proposal to appoint three deputy prime ministers, including one each from Sabah and Sarawak, is a bold suggestion that ensured all states under the federation are given equal treatment.
According to Utusan Malaysia, Ahmad said such a suggestion was never introduced by any other political party and could be considered a “game changer” for the country if BN secured victory in the upcoming general election (GE15).
However, Ahmad dismissed assertions that the move would be a waste of public funds, as the BN government could replace the present government’s practice of appointing four senior ministers.
“It would be a better option for the people in both states (Sabah and Sarawak) if the senior minister position is removed and then replaced by three deputy prime ministers.
“They can certainly deal with specific tasks in Sabah and Sarawak as well as the peninsula in aiding the prime minister,” he said, as quoted by the Malay daily.
During GE15 campaign preparations in Sabah yesterday, Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said BN was mooting the idea of having three deputy prime ministers to be part of BN’s election manifesto.
Zahid noted that the appointments would allow greater representation among leaders from East Malaysia in the federal government.
Zahid also said he is confident that Ismail Sabri, who is designated as BN’s choice for prime minister, would accept the suggestion if it was to receive resounding support from the people.
However, opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who was also in Sabah last evening, was quick to shoot down BN’s idea, saying people of the state face more pressing concerns.
Anwar also pointed out that Pakatan Harapan had previously made similar offers to Sabahans since 2008.
He also said that Sabahans are still troubled by the lack of water and electricity supply, despite being ruled by BN for decades. – The Vibes, October 24, 2022