KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) has voiced deep concern and indignation over what it describes as a resurgence of political appointments within the current Pakatan Harapan (PH) led unity government.
In a statement today, it said that this revelation comes as a stark contradiction to the coalition's earlier commitment to curtail political patronage in government-run enterprises.
The spotlight is on the recent appointment of Sangetha Jayakumar, a Wanita Keadilan leader, to the board of directors of the Port Klang Authority (PKA).
It said that this move, deemed contradictory to PH's initial pledge to reduce political interference, has left Muda questioning the sincerity and integrity of the present administration.
Muda finds it disheartening and hypocritical that such practices persist despite promises made to the Malaysian public, highlighting a distressing pattern where political appointments, especially from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) and Umno, are prevalent.
The alliance is urging the government to provide a transparent explanation to the public regarding these appointments.
"The nation is witnessing a distressing pattern where political appointments, especially from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) and Umno are being made, raising questions about the sincerity and integrity of the current administration.
"We urge the government to provide a transparent explanation to the Malaysian public regarding these appointments," stated muda in a press release.
Muda strongly believes in a Malaysia where governance is transparent, accountable, and free from the vestiges of political patronage. The resurgence of such practices is viewed by Muda as undermining public trust and jeopardising the nation's democratic principles, the statement added.
It called for an immediate review of all political appointments made to government-linked entities. It insisted that appointments should be based on merit, expertise, and capability rather than political allegiance.
Muda also urged the government to uphold the principles of accountability and transparency by providing clear justification for each political appointment.
It also called on the government to reaffirm its commitment to eradicating political patronage and restore public faith in democratic institutions.
Muda also asked Malaysians to remain vigilant, uphold the principles of justice and integrity, and demand accountability from those entrusted with the responsibility of governance.