PMO: PM not backing anyone to form new party

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) stressed today that premier Anwar Ibrahim is not backing anyone to form a new political party.

This came after a businessperson claimed to have consulted Anwar on forming a new Indian party and would be seeking the latter's blessing to do so.

While not naming anyone, the PMO decried those who "misused" the prime minister's name without authorisation.

"Such actions are very irresponsible and have a negative impact on the credibility of the prime minister and the government administration.

"As such, the PMO advises the public not to be confused with unofficial statements issued by any quarters," he said.

On Saturday, businessperson P Thiagarajan - better known as Oms Thiagarajan - held a gathering in Klang where he announced plans to set up a new political party.

"I have told Anwar about this function. He said, ‘Go ahead’.

"Whatever feedback from today, I will inform him (Anwar) soon.

"The final decision is in his hands. Don't worry, we hope for the best from our prime minister,” he said.

The event was attended by around 400 people including former MyPPP president M Kayveas, former All Malaysian Indian Progressive Front (IPF) secretary-general K Panjamoorthy, former PKR Kapar assemblyperson S Manikavasagam, former Kahang assemblyperson Ramis Subramaniam and former MIC veteran Dr N Ganabaskaran.

Thiagarajan is viewed as a close associate of Anwar's.

In 2018, Anwar was photographed attending Thiagarajan's 64th birthday celebration in Subang Jaya, Selangor. - Mkini