Harapan won't 'complicate' confidence vote if PM is pro-rakyat - Anwar

 

Pakatan Harapan chief Anwar Ibrahim gave his assurance today that the coalition would not “complicate” an upcoming vote of confidence for Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob - if the latter acts in the interest of the people.

“We told him if the situation is such, if the programmes are pro-rakyat, we will not complicate (a vote of confidence),” Anwar told reporters outside the Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya.

Anwar met the prime minister along with Amanah president Mohamad Sabu and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng.

Although sparse on details, Anwar said among the matters discussed were pro-rakyat programmes that focused on the poor and jobs.

The opposition leader said the meeting was a “good start” and that another committee-stage meeting would be attended by representatives.

“(They will hash out) what can be agreed, and what measures can be taken so that the country’s and the prime minister’s positions and situations are under control.

“This is peaceful politics,” Anwar remarked.

Prior to Ismail's ascension, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong had urged whoever becomes prime minister to reach out across the floor to foster bipartisan cooperation.

'Meeting held in the spirit of King's decree'

Anwar said the meeting with Ismail today was in the spirit of the King's decree.

Besides pro-rakyat initiatives, Anwar said Lim brought up economic issues, including loan moratoriums, while Mohamad spoke about the impact of Covid-19.

He said they did not discuss the National Recovery Council, which Ismail had invited the opposition to join.

Harapan has yet to make a decision on joining the council.

Anwar said they also did not discuss cabinet positions, and that it is Harapan's stance not to pursue it as it is focusing only on the people's economy and Covid-19.

Anwar also said that he teased Ismail at the meeting.

"I wish to say thank you. Ismail is from Umno and he spoke to Anwar and DAP.

"I teased him that (Umno's stance on) 'no Anwar, no DAP' has changed," he said.

Umno's supreme council and general assembly had rejected cooperation with Anwar and DAP.

This had been a major stumbling block in Anwar securing support from Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's faction in his bid to become prime minister. - Mkini