Malaysia opposition wants by-elections after some MPs back PM Anwar, triggering landmark law

A Malaysian opposition party is demanding recall elections be held in four constituencies, after some of its lawmakers from the Borneo state of Sabah openly backed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

The four lawmakers’ actions triggered Malaysian laws meant to curb defections, and the parliament speaker has been notified that their seats are now vacant, said Ronald Kiandee, vice-president of pro-Malay opposition party Bersatu on Thursday.

According to a landmark legislation to ban party-hopping, a lawmaker who resigns from his political party or ceases to be a member will cause his parliament seat to become vacant, thereby requiring a fresh election in his constituency. This doesn’t apply to those who are expelled or if a party is dissolved.

Kiandee said the law was triggered when the four Sabah members of parliament broke ranks and sat on the government bench during the December 19 parliament session. By “crossing the floor and violating their election promises to voters”, they had contravened the party constitution and ceased to be members of Bersatu, he said.

“We have requested the House Speaker to inform this matter to the Election Commission within 21 days upon receiving the written notice, so that the process of an election can be arranged to fill the vacancy,” said Kiandee.

If the recall elections happen, it will be a litmus test of support for Anwar, who solidified power with a confidence vote victory during December’s parliament session.