Umno leaders in a tizzy over Anwar's quitting remark

A cacophony of comments greeted opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim's recent remark that he would retire from politics should Pakatan Rakyat fails to form the Federal government at the coming polls.

Interviewed by Financial Times, Anwar described the next general election as his final attempt at toppling Barisan Nasional.

“If we win, we shall proceed. If not, let the new generation take on the struggle. Let me retire and return to teaching,” he said.

But far from sighs of relief that their enemy number one would be out of the picture, UMNO leaders quickly looked ways to interpret the rare 'retirement plan' announced by Anwar.

Utusan Malaysia, which dedicates several pages daily attacking Anwar, described the 'retirement' plan as his 'vote fishing' tactics by drawing public sympathy, but added that “no one really cares whether Anwar retires”.

That statement was proven wrong by the reactions from UMNO leaders, with the man responsible for converting a prime minister-in-waiting to Malaysia's most recognised opposition icon leading the charge.

“He should retire right now. It is futile ... his desire to become the prime minister," said former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

UMNO Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin on the other hand urged Anwar to keep his promise:

“Anwar was former UMNO Youth chief, so he must be man enough, if fails, he should resign.”

Raja Nong Chik may not be affected by Anwar's demise from politics as he is tipped to contest against Anwar's daughter Nurul Izzah Anwar in Lembah Pantai, yet he has added his two-cents':

“It was just an old-fashion gimmick. It’s clear that Anwar baying on the people and his followers’ sympathy,” said the Federal Territories and Urban Well-being minister.

UMNO information chief Maslan Aliman was more realistic in deciphering Anwar's words:

“Maybe his intention is to tell his supporters that this is his last election so they will work hard,” he said.

But UMNO Puteri chief Rosnah Abdul Shirlin struck a nasty chord, repeating sexual accusations against the 65-year old and claiming that Mahathir was the one victimised by Anwar.

“Anwar had been proven to use the political platform for personal vendetta against Mahathir and to hide his personal problems, sodomy case, sex video and running away from punishment,” she said.

-Harakahdaily