KUALA LUMPUR: A historic bill to limit the tenure of the prime minister to two terms has been tabled for the first reading in Parliament today.
The Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2019, was listed as the first item in the Dewan Rakyat Order Paper.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Liew Vui Keong said debates for the bill is expected to take place in the next Parliament sitting in March 2020.
In October last year, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced the government’s plans to limit the tenure of prime minister, menteri besar, as well as chief ministers to two terms.
He added that the move was part of the political system reform, curb excessive powers and enhance integrity.
Meanwhile, at a press conference, Dr Mahathir responded positively when asked to comment on to the move.
“I am 94 now. Do you want me to be PM when I am 100 years old?” he said in jest.
Liew told reporters that the bill, if passed, would only come into force on a date set by the King, by notification in the gazette.
“This amendment would not affect the previous terms of past prime ministers, including Dr Mahathir’s past tenure.
“This bill is prospective, not retrospective. If (any past prime minister) makes a comeback (after the bill is passed), the most he can hold is two terms,” he added.