[PRESS STATEMENT] Malaysians do not want Anwar to retire, poll results wrong

I refer to a poll published on 16th May which claims that 81 per cent of Malaysians want Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to quit politics. This poll result is completely contradicted by the massive ground support Anwar Ibrahim has been receiving throughout the country since he announced that he would not accept the fraudulent GE results and would fight on to take Putrajaya. This support can clearly be seen in the massive crowds of hundreds of thousands who have come out to greet Anwar at the ongoing rallies across the nation. On social media, in the streets and at public rallies, the majority of the people are united in wanting Anwar to carry on until the job is done.

Despite massive gerrymandering, election fraud and unfair election practices, Anwar’s Pakatan Rakyat obtained 52% of the popular vote as opposed to BN’s 47%. This means that the majority of Malaysians voted for Pakatan Rakyat to form the federal government, and for Anwar to be Prime Minister. Anwar is thus duty-bound to carry on as leader of Pakatan Rakyat until victory is achieved and the people’s will is given effect. Indeed, it would have been a great fault if Anwar had retired from politics at this crucial moment in the history of our nation. It would have been a different matter if the BN had convincingly and fairly won the general election; in those circumstances, Anwar would certainly have carried out his intention to retire from politics.

Irrespective of what the future brings, Anwar has secured a gigantic place in our history and in the hearts of most Malaysians; his long political struggle has resulted in what is effectively a two-party system in our country, and brought about the maturing of Malaysian democracy. Much remains to be done. The BN is beyond help, and beyond reform; for the good of the country they must removed from power. The people know this, and that is why they continue to support Anwar’s epic struggle for democracy and justice in Malaysia.

Issued by,

N SURENDRAN

VICE PRESIDENT, KEADILAN

PADANG SERAI MP

16th May 2013