'Join Bersatu' call - Dr M to explain to Harapan on Monday, says Anwar

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad will explain to Pakatan Harpan leaders on Monday his invitation to Malay parties including Umno to join his Bersatu.

PKR president Anwar Ibrahim told reporters at the launch of the University Malaya Endowment Fund (Umef) in Kuala Lumpur tonight that "we have a meeting of the presidential council of Pakatan Harapan on Monday and that is the best place for us to discuss issues including the PM's latest proposal."

"This is the regular monthly meeting of the presidential council and should be used by the prime minister to give clarification on this matter," he said.

Yesterday, Mahathir had issued an invitation to all Malay parties, including Umno, to join Bersatu in order for them to unite and strengthen the political power of the Malays.

The Bersatu chairperson said the existence of more Malay political parties could potentially damage their chances to win in general elections.

The invitation was firmly rejected by Umno leaders like ex-premier Najib Abdul Razak and party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who pointed out that Umno and PAS are the largest Malay parties in the country.

However, Rembau MP Khairy Jamaluddin struck a different note, saying that the prime minister had valid concerns behind his suggestion.

Speaking at a separate programme in Titiwangsa in the capital, Anwar criticised those who claimed he was willing to do anything to become prime minister.

"Some people say, Anwar will do anything to become prime minister. I want to tell you, if I really would have done anything to become prime minister, I could have done so in 1999 or 2000. Do not forget that," he said.

"I cannot tolerate greed, arrogance and tyranny," he said at the event organised by former PKR Youth leaders and members to announce the formation of an NGO to represent them as the older generation of reformasi activists.

In his speech, Anwar said, "If there is a breakdown as in anyone who tries to harm (his relationship with Mahathir), this will hurt Harapan and benefit the opposition.

"So far, the promises and regulations in Harapan have not changed. Mahathir now, then Anwar (will be prime minister)," he said. - Mkini