KUALA LUMPUR: Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul called for politicians to leave him out of political drama, saying he is colourblind to all parties in the hall.
He was answering Jelutong member of Parliament (MP) RSN Rayer's question over the recent news report where opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin claimed the speaker was unfair to opposition MPs.
"You can continue politicking, just do not get me involved," he emphasised.
Johari said he would take action against questions over his authority and decisions only if it was mentioned in the hall.
"I am different from all the previous speakers; I will take action against questions over my authority and decisions, as long as it is being said in the hall," he said.
However, Johari said he does not take issue with individuals shaming or deeming him not fit as the house speaker outside the hall.
"I serve for the August House. Anything said outside the hall, calling me stupid or unqualified, is not my business.
"I am here, colourblind (to all political parties). I am responsible to both (MPs seated) on my right and those on my left.
"I am appointed here to handle the affairs in the House so that we will pursue decisions that benefit the people," he said.
Last Friday, the Perikatan Nasional (PN) secretary-general said the speaker has no legal background, unlike his predecessor, Tan Sri Azhar Azizan Harun, who did a better job in the post since the latter was not a politician.
"If the speaker is fair, we can address important matters effectively… we (opposition) are not playing an effective role as a non-legal speaker is manipulating us."
"I feel that when appointing a speaker, it is essential to have someone who is fair and impartial in any decision-making process, rather than just being in cahoots with the ministers or colluding to protect their interests," he added.
When asked whether Johari is incompetent, Hamzah said: "This is not a court session to say yes or no to that, but I just think he is not fair; what is most important here is fairness to provide better input."