TANGKAK: Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim claimed the Johor state election was called because Barisan Nasional (BN) wanted to regain the political dominance it once enjoyed.
The prime minister said the election was unnecessary at this stage, but PH had no choice but to contest after the state leadership decided to dissolve the Johor legislative assembly.
"The election is not needed now, but we have been forced into it because they believe they are strong enough to return to power.
"They could not wait because they were afraid the opportunity would slip away. They should have been patient. The election is still some time away, so focus on governing first," he said at the Johor Ke Depan, Undi Harapan campaign ceramah for the Serom state seat here tonight.
Also present were Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Amanah deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa.
Anwar claimed BN had failed to explain the real reason for calling the election, choosing instead to play on racial sentiments.
"Ask them why the election is being held. The people deserve to know, but they do not tell them. Instead, they tell the Malays that they must be saved from the Chinese in DAP," he said.
He said PH's participation in the state polls would ensure stronger cooperation between the Johor and federal governments while providing political stability.
Anwar also criticised the state administration, saying many local issues remained unresolved despite support from the federal government.
He said matters such as public housing, places of worship, local council services and state land fell under the state government's responsibility.
"Large federal projects have already been implemented. Now the state must play its part.
"Low-cost housing under the state government is in poor condition and neglected. Give PH the opportunity, and we will improve all this.
"We want to uplift the people of Johor. We have the experience and will do our best to improve the state so that no poor community is left behind," he said. - NST
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