THE PARLIAMENT IS DISGRACED

THE PARLIAMENT IS DISGRACED
by
Tun Abdul Hamid Mohamad

 

Parliament is a noble hall where the country’s leaders, representing the people who elect them. sit to discuss matters of state and make laws to be implemented in the interest of the nation. Certainly, discussions of such important matters are expected by all, to be done by people who are respectable, educated, experienced and knowledgeable in matters of state. They will place national interest above their party’s and their personal interests. They are able to see far ahead and dare to make decisions which might not be popular at present, but good in the long run. It is also expected that the discussions will take place in a mature, serious and respectable way. That is why the members of Parliament are addressed as “The Honourable”.

But, since power and everything that goes with it is the main attraction, the struggle for power becomes the main agenda of members of Parliament. Consequently, the government camp is prepared to do anything to remain in power while the opposition camp is willing to do anything to seize power.

As a result, day by day, Parliament is losing its respect as a noble hall due to the behaviour of some of its members during parliamentary sessions. Their behavior is not only “unparliamentary” but also disgraceful, unfit for such an august hall.

Of course, there are members of parliament who discuss national issues deeply and seriously. But their voice is drowned by the members who lack substance, but try to draw attention by their controversial behavior and words. The media gives priority to them. So, they take the opportunity to attract attention and become popular. Unfortunately, some voters think that such members of Parliament are “heroes”.

But, whatever the views of the voters, members of Parliament, as leaders, must lead by setting a good example, not by being cheap actors who entertain their voters. What is more worrying is that it is viewed by young people and students who might grow up to think that that is the way to debate issues in Parliament and that that is our culture.

It appears that this behaviour has become more prevalent since the live broadcast was introduced. I suggest that the Government should review whether the live telecast should continue. If the harm is more than good, it should be discontinued. When there are no spectators, actors will not act.

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26 11 2016

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