MCA's 'sexist' twist to Wan Azizah's rumoured exit

MCA has added "sexist" to its list of names for Opposition Anwar Ibrahim, this time over the speculation that his wife Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail may make way for him by stepping down as PKR president in the party elections next year.

"This is a big insult to Malaysian women of the 21st century as well as tarnishes our efforts in women's rights and gender equality efforts for the past few years," said MCA vice-chairperson Heng Seai Kie in a statement today.

Heng (left) claimed that if Wan Azizah stepped down, it was merely to fulfill her husband's personal political ambition.

"This incident proves that Anwar has no respect for his wife or women in elected office. They are getting the sore end of a deal in PKR.

"So now where is the integrity and dignity of all the other women leaders of PKR or Pakatan (Rakyat)?... Are they just going to pretend ignorance and continue keeping quiet at their de facto leader's sexist attitude?" she said.

Wan Azizah was PKR president (then PKN) since 1999 and has held the position for 14 years.

However, in 2009, in an effort to reform the party, PKR instituted a three term or nine-year limit for the post of president.

It has been speculated that Anwar may take over the presidency to prevent a split within the party.

Wan Azizah has a rocky relationship with her deputy, Azmin Ali who has been rumoured to be gearing up for a challenge against her, but may think twice if Anwar enters the fray.