Mustafa defends Harapan 'failure' in fulfilling 100-day promises

PAS advisory board chairperson Mustafa Ali has defended Pakatan Harapan over criticisms that it has failed to deliver its 10 promises within 100 days of coming to power.

According to him, it is "normal" and the rakyat should not accuse the government of "cheating" over the matter.

Mustafa said the government can be seen as trying its level best to keep to the promises made and has even taken some drastic steps such as abolishing the goods and services tax (GST).

"Not all promises can be kept all the time. There could be promises made based on a previous perspective. When one comes to power, the situation may differ.

"I see some ministers are serious in their carrying out their duties. Certain things take time, there are considerations about costs and amending laws.

"We cannot punish (the government) like that, it's not about cheating. (In fact) they have admitted that they cannot deliver certain pledges in 100 days [...] this is nothing extraordinary," he said in an interview with Malaysiakini in Kuala Terengganu on Tuesday.

The former PAS secretary-general was asked to comment on criticisms over Harapan's inability to deliver its 10 main promises in its first 100 days in power.

This includes abolishing the GST, abolishing tolls, implementing a minimum wage, stabilising fuel prices, introducing targeted subsidies and reducing Felda settlers' debts.

'To cheat' is deliberate

According to Mustafa, the government can only be accused of cheating if it deliberately did not implement something that it is fully capable of doing.

"If there is something they can do but they don't do, only then can we say cheating.

"For instance, in the oil royalty issue, they have promised to implement it. God willing, I hope it can be implemented for Kelantan and Terengganu soon," he said.

Mustafa also sees the change of federal government, following the May 9 general election, and the ensuing smooth transition of power as positive developments.

"As decided by Harapan, Dr Mahathir (Mohamad) finally became the prime minister. As an experienced politician, he has his own strategy in administration.

"Even the cabinet appointments [...] he did not do it all at one go, but in stages. That is the strategy of the prime minister based on certain needs," noted Mustafa. -Mkini