PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man has argued against limiting a prime minister’s tenure to two full terms. Speaking in his personal capacity, the Kubang Kerian MP said such restrictions could deprive the nation of capable leaders. Experience from other countries supports this view.
Lessons from Abroad
Many in the United States believed Barack Obama could have continued effectively. Similarly, Indonesians felt Joko Widodo still had much to offer. Term limits prevented both from contributing further, Tuan Ibrahim noted.
Claims that term limits prevent abuse of power or corruption are misguided, he said. Wrongdoing can occur even in a single term. Integrity and trustworthiness depend on the individual, not time served.
Broader Corruption Concerns
Corruption is not limited to the prime minister alone. It can involve leaders at all levels. Tuan Ibrahim questioned whether Cabinet ministers or other public servants should also face term limits.
The country should focus on building integrity, accountability, piety, and moral responsibility in governance. Leadership performance is best judged by the people. Direct election of the prime minister would be ideal, he added.
PAS election director Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor emphasised performance over term limits. A good leader could serve even 10 terms without issue. Poor performers should not complete even one term.
Limiting a capable leader who becomes prime minister young, say at 40, would be a loss to the nation. The key issue is delivery for the people and country. Time in office matters less than results, Sanusi said.
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