KOTA KINABALU: The Dewan Rakyat speaker's decision to retain four Sabah members of parliament (MPs) will help stabilise the country's politics.
The four are Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali (Papar), Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan (Batu Sapi), Datuk Matbali Musah (Sipitang) and Datuk Jonathan Yassin (Ranau).
Their positions as MPs came into question after they quit Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia with former Sabah Perikatan Nasional chief Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Matbali and Jonathan yesterday confirmed that the four MPs do not need to vacate their seats, according to a letter from the speaker to Sabah Perikatan Nasional chief Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee.
Universiti Malaysia Sabah's Dr Romzi Ationg said it was not surprising that the four MPs could keep their seats as they had used Gabungan Rakyat Sabah's (GRS) symbol instead of Bersatu's in the 15th General Election.
"Many are confused about the anti-party hopping law and are questioning what exactly is the definition of a political party (in the context of the law).
"We hope the speaker's decision will stabilise Sabah's and Malaysia's politics.
"The four MPs must work hard to ensure everyone can see it is the right call (letting them keep their seats)."
Asked about the new party that Hajiji will form, Romzi said it would be best for the four MPs to stay as GRS politicians or they might violate the anti-party hopping law.
Sabah Universiti Teknologi Mara lecturer and political observer Tony Paridi Bagang said the court would be an option to determine the legality of the speaker's decision.
"I suppose the decision by the speaker is based on his jurisdiction and in accordance with the laws. Nevertheless, if the speaker's decision is ultra vires, then it needs to be checked.
"The stripping of their (four MPs) seats can only be determined by the respective bodies (legislative/judiciary), subject to legal requirements. If they are vacated, then by-elections are inevitable.
"It may be good for democracy, as a new mandate needs to be obtained from the people. But it could affect the governance of the country or state, especially during this challenging time."