Deputy exco members have no executive powers, says Onn Hafiz

Johor menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi (centre) and the 10 deputy exco members after their appointment on July 22. (Bernama pic)PETALING JAYA: Johor menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi has defended the appointment of 10 deputy state executive councillors, saying they have no executive powers and cannot make decisions on behalf of the exco.Responding to criticism from several Pakatan Harapan leaders, Onn Hafiz said the appointments were made within the administrative powers of the state government and were based on advice from the state legal adviser.He said it was important to understand that the deputy exco members are not members of the executive council, and no new portfolios had been created for them.Onn Hafiz also said the appointments did not create any new executive powers, transfer the authority of exco members, or alter the structure of the state administration.“They have no authority to make decisions on behalf of the exco, do not attend state executive council meetings, and have no power to approve policies, financial matters or any executive decisions.“All decision-making powers remain solely with members of the state executive council, as provided for under the Johor state constitution,” he said in a statement.He also rejected claims the move was aimed at increasing the number of political appointments or expanding the state's bureaucracy.According to him, the deputy exco members were appointed to enhance the state's administrative capacity, enabling more effective policy implementation, project monitoring, and resolution of public issues.Onn Hafiz said Johor was pursuing several strategic initiatives, including the Johor Economic Transformation Plan, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, the RTS Link, and other high-impact projects leading up to 2030.“As the state develops, our administrative capacity must also be strengthened to ensure policies are translated into action and deliver tangible benefits to the people of Johor,” he said.He said the appointments would utilise existing state government assets and facilities, and there would be no expansion of the state's administrative structure that would "burden public finances".The eight Johor PH assemblymen yesterday called on the state government to publicly explain the rationale for creating the 10 deputy exco posts, outline the roles and powers of the appointees, disclose the financial implicati…