Unity govt should represent all races and faiths, says PKR veep

 

With the palace preferring a unity government to resolve the political impasse, Pakatan Harapan and Perikatan Nasional (PN) are courting BN, whose 30 MPs could provide either coalition with the numerical advantage to form the next government.

However, some observers noted that BN joining hands with PN, comprising Bersatu, PAS, and Gerakan, as well as GPS and GRS, would not be reflective of the nation’s multiracial and multi-religious demographics in terms of their number of elected representatives.

Presenting Harapan’s case, PKR vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad posed a rhetorical question: “What should a unity government look like? In the Malaysian context.”

“Such an entity should not only be representative of parties across the political spectrum, but of all races, faiths, states, and territories within our nation,” he told Malaysiakini.

Agreeing that Malaysia needed a unity government, the MP-elect for Setiawangsa believes it is the most sustainable solution for Malaysia to meet the challenges ahead, including a looming global recession, climate change, and geopolitical uncertainties.

“Stability is also required if Malaysia is to remain economically competitive with its neighbours and as an investment destination. Much work needs to be done to provide inclusive education, housing, healthcare, and jobs to our rakyat - especially the young.

“All this requires a government that is stable, functional, and legitimate. Again, the best way to bring one about is via a unity government,” he added.

Noting that Harapan chairperson Anwar Ibrahim revealed that His Majesty also wanted an all-inclusive and all-encompassing government, Nik Nazmi said Harapan, which emerged with the most number of seats in the Dewan Rakyat, is prepared to lead and be part of such an administration.

“It is true that the last election campaign was intense and even bitter. We have our principles and our opponents have theirs.

“But, when the nation is left in a state of uncertainty and with external challenges at bay, we must put aside these differences for the greater good and national interest.

Pakatan Harapan chairperson Anwar Ibrahim

“The key is to find common ground and ways to work together to see Malaysia through the economic and other threats that we may face in the months and years ahead.

“GE15 (15th general election) has also unfortunately seen heightened extremist sentiments being expressed on social media. As such, a unity government can help to cool tensions and calm anxieties,” he added.

Working with rivals

Nik Nazmi said Anwar has expressed willingness to work with all quarters, even Harapan’s closest rivals, to realise a unity government including PN, BN, GPS, GRS, Warisan, and other parties or independent MPs.

He added it was both “unfortunate and shortsighted” for PN chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin to reject forming a unity government.

“PN will have to explain why. But I suspect it is because it is unable to create or lead such a unity government.

“Because of PN’s unwillingness, Harapan is working to form one with the other coalitions. It is not easy given the long rivalry between our respective component parties.

“But Harapan believes it must ensure stability in Malaysia, as well as its multiracial character.

“Good governance and the independence of our public institutions is non-negotiable,” he added.

Perikatan Nasional chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin

Nik Nazmi said as entities with strong traditions of multiracialism, a unity government between Harapan, BN, GPS, GRS, Warisan, and others is best placed to serve and develop “not only the Malaysians who voted for us - but also those who voted for PN as well.

“Bumiputera and non-bumiputera, Muslim and non-Muslim, urban and rural - no one should be left out or feeling fearful in Malaysia.

“It is hence only common sense for Malaysia’s political leaders to take heed of the Agong’s call for a unity government,” he added.

Moreover, Nik Nazmi said all like-minded parties should join and expressed gratitude to Warisan for supporting Harapan.

“Whatever happens, Harapan will respect the constitutional process, the institution of the monarchy, and the will of the people,” he added.

PN, which has managed to make significant inroads with regard to Malay-Muslim voters and landed a devastating blow to Umno in GE15, has also pledged to be fair to all races and religions. - Mkini