The CSO Platform for Reform voiced its support for the proposal to cap the prime minister’s tenure at two terms or a maximum of 10 years, saying that leadership renewal is crucial to preventing excessive power consolidation.

“This reform will curb entrenched political dominance, encourage leadership succession, and strengthen the overall democratic framework of the nation,” it said in a statement today.

On Sunday, Bersih had also said other states should consider limiting the terms of their menteris besar and chief ministers. So far, only Penang has enacted such a provision.

This came after DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook raised the proposal to enforce a two-term limit for the prime ministership during the party’s national congress on Sunday.

Loke pointed out that the proposal was part of Pakatan Harapan’s manifesto for the 15th general election (GE15).

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim responded positively, affirming his support but said consensus among political parties was necessary to ensure such a proposal would be passed in Parliament.

However, the proposal has drawn mixed reactions, including from Bachok MP Syahir Sulaiman of PAS who said the topic is open for discussion but advocated that the prime minister’s position be reserved for Muslims.

The CSO Platform for Reform also called for all political parties to set aside their differences and support the proposal.

“We urge all political parties to demonstrate their commitment to good governance by supporting term limits at both the federal and state levels,” the coalition said.

It also warned that prolonged tenures – whether at the federal or state level – could lead to the concentration of power, weaken institutional checks and balances, and hinder the emergence of new leadership.

“Implementing a two-term limit will promote more accountable, transparent, and dynamic governance while ensuring that no single individual wields unchecked authority for too long,” it said.