Melaka:Two leaders from Melaka's Pakatan Harapan (PH) have initiated a lawsuit contesting a state constitutional amendment regarding the appointment of assemblymen.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the lawsuit was filed by Khoo Poay Tiong, Kota Melaka MP and a registered voter in Melaka, alongside Adly Zahari, Melaka PH chairman and Bukit Katil assemblyman. The case names the Melaka state government as the defendant.

The writ was delivered to the offices of the Melaka State Secretary and the State Legal Adviser at Kompleks Seri Negeri. The filing took place at the Melaka High Court on October 8.

Khoo Poay Tiong argued that the amendment, officially published on August 27, violates the Federal Constitution by contravening Article 71(4) alongside Section 4(1) of Part I of the Eighth Schedule. He is seeking a judicial declaration that the amendment is invalid under both the Melaka State and Federal Constitutions.

Khoo emphasized that the amendment compromises democratic principles by permitting the appointment of assemblymen without an election. He criticized the provision that grants the Chief Minister the sole authority to appoint and dismiss assemblymen, arguing it undermines democratic and voters' rights.

The legislative change in question, passed on July 14 by the Melaka State Legislative Assembly, allows for the appointment of up to seven assemblymen. It was approved by 23 assemblymen, with five opposing the bill.