I criticise but still support the government, says Syed Saddiq

 

Muda president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman insists his criticisms of the unity government are constructive and “come attached with policy solutions”.

PETALING JAYA: Muda president Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman insists he still backs the unity government despite speaking out against Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s administration on several issues.

In an interview with FMT, Syed Saddiq defended his fierce criticism of the government, stressing that it is an essential part of building a mature democracy.

The Muar MP said he was raising genuine concerns over several issues such as unequal constituency allocations, the centralisation of power and the extension of contracts without parliamentary approval.

“There are so many things that I have consistently raised, but while I have raised these, did I say I was going to withdraw support (for the unity government)? No.”

“So, will I continue to do that? Yes, because I am here because of the people, and I owe a duty to my constituents to speak up to ensure that Malaysia becomes a developed country.

“To be honest, these are constructive criticisms which come attached with policy solutions,” he said.

On Monday, Syed Saddiq took the prime minister to task for his claim that his Cabinet ministers were not involved in corruption. Syed Saddiq said Anwar’s statement created a perception that court cases involving deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and others would be dropped – an allegation which Anwar has since dismissed.

Umno communication director Lokman Noor Adam brushed aside the Muda president’s remarks, saying they were borne out of disappointment that PH had not allocated seats to his party in the upcoming state elections.

Speaking to Utusan Malaysia, Lokman said it would be “more honourable” if Syed Saddiq, who seems to “act like the opposition”, leaves the unity government and charts his own course for Muda.

The Muar MP, however, remains undeterred, telling FMT he will continue to speak up and provide feedback to the unity government.

Asked if Muda candidates had been instructed to steer away from speaking on any topics, Syed Saddiq said the party’s nominees have been told not to touch on hyper-racial and religious policies or resort to character assassination.

“Focus on policies, policies, policies and policies. That should be the ultimate priority. Criticise and talk about what we can offer better,” he said. - FMT