Explain exemption for Umno, Saifuddin told

 

By Reshna Reem Ganesan 

PETALING JAYA: Home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail has been urged to explain his decision to grant Umno an exemption under the Societies Act 1966 for the resolution barring contests for its top two posts in the upcoming party elections.

Universiti Sains Malaysia analyst Azmil Tayeb said the exemption given by Saifuddin had set a precedent and might not bode well with Pakatan Harapan supporters.

“This is because the government is running on a reform agenda,” he told FMT.

“If Umno had not breached the law, there was no need for an exemption,” he said.

On Tuesday, Saifuddin confirmed Umno was granted an exemption pursuant to Section 70 of the Societies Act.

Under Section 70, the minister is empowered to use his discretion to exempt any registered society from all or any of the provisions of the Act.

PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan and former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin have criticised Saifuddin’s decision to grant the party an exemption.

Khairy, who was sacked by Umno in January, accused Saifuddin of using executive powers to absolve an unlawful act.

Meanwhile, an Umno leader who declined to be named, said Saifuddin’s decision would only raise more questions among party members.

“Clearly, Saifuddin’s exemption for the provision happened because Umno didn’t comply with the Societies Act,” he said, adding that the minister must explain his decision.

Awang Azman Pawi of Universiti Malaya, however, said the home minister had the discretion to exempt an organisation from any provisions of the Societies Act and that there was no need for the opposition to question this.

“Only voters who aren’t aware of the minister’s powers and are easily influenced will fall prey to the opposition’s propaganda,” he said.

He also said that Khairy’s comments on the matter were expected but would not be taken into consideration by Umno members because he was no longer a party member.