TAWAU, Nov 11 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called Datuk Ewon Benedick’s resignation from the Cabinet as “premature,” ahead of its decision over a High Court ruling on Sabah’s 40 per cent revenue entitlement.
Ewon resigned as entrepreneur and cooperatives development minister yesterday, a move made to protest the federal government’s handling of the court’s decision.
The move also coincides with the Sabah state election on Nov 29.
Anwar stressed that the government must follow due legal process, explaining that the Cabinet needs to hear the Attorney General’s advice on any potential constitutional implications before making a move, The Star reported.
“The judgment only came three days ago. We can see there are strengths and there are weaknesses. Read it first. Listen to the call of the nation. And then we make a decision,” he said.
While the legal appeal is being considered, Anwar argued that his administration has already demonstrated its commitment to Sabah’s rights, pointing out that his government has increased special allocations to the state and that annual provisions for Sabah now stand at RM17 billion.
“What is the problem with the appeal? Have we given the 40 per cent? Yes, we have. Have we negotiated? Yes, we have,” he said.
Anwar added that further negotiations would continue after the Sabah election.
He also clarified that the meeting’s agenda is focused on the Sabah issue, not a rumoured Cabinet reshuffle.
