SHAH ALAM, March 14 — Sungai Tawar state assemblyman Datuk Rizam Ismail has yet to submit his letter of resignation as Selangor Opposition Leader, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Ng Suee Lim said.
He was commenting on the motion by Bukit Antarabangsa state assemblyman Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, who recommended Sijangkang state assemblyman Datuk Dr Ahmad Yunus Hairi as Opposition Leader during today’s sitting.
However, Ng said Rizam must submit his resignation letter first before he can appoint a replacement.
“In the assembly, we cannot just listen to words and they cannot be brought (to the assembly), facts are needed, a letter (from Rizam), and so forth.
“When he (Mohamed Azmin) suddenly represented Umno, I was surprised, Rizam is the one supposed to hand in the letter to me,” he told reporters here today.
Ng added the Opposition Leader’s position in the state was suited for Mohamed Azmin, based on his experience and his former positions, compared to Ahmad Yunus.
As the former international trade and industries minister is currently not an MP (in the Dewan Rakyat) means he has more time to serve as the Opposition Leader in Selangor and provide checks and balances.
He said if the position of Opposition Leader falls vacant, the biggest Opposition block in Selangor will be asked to suggest a name to him, before any appointment is made.
“Maybe Rizam is busy today, but we will give room to the opposition block to debate within the time stipulated,” Ng said.
Mohamed Azmin had earlier asked Ng to clarify the position of Selangor Opposition Leader during the assembly sitting.
“Yesterday I spoke to the Sungai Air Tawar state assemblyman and he was ready to hand over the tasks and duties to us. Of course, the role of the Opposition Leader is important in debating Selangor matters. So I am seeking the Speaker’s advice in this matter.
“It is important for the Selangor assembly to create a healthy environment with an effective opposition so I urge the Speaker and suggest the Sijangkang state assemblyman as the Selangor Opposition Leader,” he said.
— Bernama
