Annuar apologises, says by-election comment was in jest

Umno secretary-general Annuar Musa has claimed he was joking when he suggested there may be a by-election in Langkawi parliamentary seat.

"I was saying a by-election is takdir illahi (god’s plan) which can happen anywhere, probably at Langkawi, Bera or Ketereh," said the Ketereh MP at the Parliament lobby.

The Langkawi parliamentary seat is presently being held by 93-year-old Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who is also the prime minister and Bersatu chairperson.

"I said it in jest, so don't take offence," said Annuar.

"It is not my character to say the words which people tried to put into my mouth," he said, adding that his remark had been misinterpreted.

"But, if anyone is offended, I apologise, no problem," he said.

"People are misinterpreting (my remark), but I don't mind. I can apologise because that's not what I meant," he said.

He said he respected Mahathir as the prime minister, a statesman and his former boss.

"If he has done something right, we must say it is right. When he is in the wrong, we must also say it," he added.

Annuar, while campaigning in the Sungai Kandis by-election, was reportedly describing the by-election as "a gift from God".

Mahathir’s son, Bersatu deputy president Mukhriz Mahathir said Annuar's comment was inappropriate.

"It is not a good comment. Someone who is 93 years old could live for another 10 years to 100 or 103, or even 20 to 30 more years," said Mukhriz.

Annuar concurred with Mukhriz on Mahathir's longevity.

"I agree. I wish I could live that long," said the 62-year-old. - Mkini