2026-02-17 / Debate: Parliamentary Pensions (Repeal) Bill - Second Reading and Committee Stage 2026-02-17
Deputy Minister Mulaffer defended the government's record by noting that policy commitments were made within a five-year mandate, not a single year. He responded to allegations by an SJB MP concerning the suitability of nominees to the Wakf Board and mosque trustee bodies, rejecting characterisations of those nominees as anti-social and accusing the opposition of reviving communal politics for electoral gain. He stated that the government would ensure Wakf Board appointments are properly vetted, including through intelligence reports where necessary, to maintain the institution's credibility, while clarifying that the Board has not yet been formally appointed and that only nominations have been submitted. He also cautioned against maligning the broader Muslim community and drew a contrast between his government's commitment to coexistence and what he described as past communal incitement by political opponents.
Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, thank you for the opportunity.
Let me recall: we never promised to fulfil every item in our policy statement within one year. The people gave us a five-year mandate, and we will honour our pledges within that period as a responsible Government.
During this debate, I must address recent media statements by an SJB MP alleging that persons nominated to the Wakf Board and to mosque trustee bodies are anti-social and carry many allegations. I ask: since the end of the war in 2009, who has kept pushing this country into cycles of communal suspicion for political gain? Today, are some again trying to win power by reviving that ugly politics?
There was never such public controversy over Wakf Board appointments in the post-Independence period. If there are concerns, we will ensure that appointments are vetted — even through intelligence reports where necessary — and we will correct any wrongs and make the Board a credible institution. Do not malign the entire Muslim community. We remember how some destroyed mosques and spread communal hatred; those who defended our community are now being questioned about Wakf nominations. The Chakku Board has not yet been appointed; only nominations are in. We will make it right.
Before entering politics, we worked for coexistence and reconciliation with all communities. Our duty — even when discussing MPs’ pensions — is to serve the people who entrusted us with power, not to assassinate characters in society. Thank you.