Muda slams ‘egoistic’ opposition after PN split, BN pact

 Muda says if opposition parties continue to choose ego over unity, the government does not need to be very strong to remain in power.

Muda’s political bureau said opposition parties need to look beyond their own interests instead of trying to establish themselves as the dominant party in the bloc.

PETALING JAYA:

Muda has urged the opposition to put aside their egos and unite to serve as an effective check and balance on the government, criticising the disunity in Perikatan Nasional as well as its pact with Barisan Nasional in the Negeri Sembilan polls.

Muda’s political bureau said PN’s pact with BN, a key component in the federal government, has made it harder to tell which parties are in government and which are in the opposition.

It said the opposition had become increasingly aimless with PAS, which chairs PN, falling out with Bersatu.

“PAS supported BN in the Johor polls and (worked) with BN in Negeri Sembilan, but still wants to be seen as part of the opposition at the federal level.

“In this context, Malaysians deserve to ask one very simple question: who is actually the opposition?” it said in a statement.

Muda said the opposition must do more than sit opposite the government bloc in the Dewan Rakyat, but must keep Putrajaya in check, offer better policies and show voters that it is ready to govern.

It said opposition parties needed to look beyond their own interests and avoid clashing with each other in elections, instead of trying to establish themselves as the dominant party in the bloc.

“The fact is that no opposition party today is strong enough to go it alone and replace the government.

“If opposition parties continue to choose ego over unity, the government does not need to be very strong to remain in power. It only needs the opposition to remain divided.

“Set aside ego. Stop fighting over who should dominate. Sit at the same table, agree on a common message, and combine your strengths to build an effective opposition,” it said.

Progressive parties urged to unite

Muda called on parties that supported progressive policies and are “serious about being in the opposition” to start discussions on establishing an organised and effective opposition bloc.

It said they do not have to give up their own identities or agree on everything, but should work together on issues of shared interests.

“Unity means being willing to find common ground on fundamental issues like institutional reforms, judicial independence, combating corruption, the cost of living, workers’ rights, climate change, and defending the rights of all Malaysians.

“Malaysia needs progressive politics based on policies, solutions, and the courage to build the future. This country cannot remain trapped by politics that use sentiment, fear, nostalgia, race or emotion to garner votes,” it said. - FMT