Putsch attempt underway in Perak- MB

Perak Menteri Besar Saarani Mohamad claims there is an ongoing attempt to oust his administration.

He claims the plan involved convincing at least four Perak legislative assemblypersons to defect to Perikatan Nasional.

"Looks like (our rivals) are not satisfied with the (Aug 12) election results. They were hoping to win all six states to give the impression of a new wave of discontent.

"But that did not happen," said Saarani after a meeting with 33 Perak legislative assembly government members at the Impiana Hotel in Ipoh, Perak yesterday, according to Sinar Harian.

"We are gathered today because we don't want suspicion among the 33 assemblypersons and ensure their loyalty to the state government."

The Perak legislative assembly has 59 members, with 26 seats held by the opposition. They must win at least four more seats through by-elections to govern the state.

Like most states, Perak has enacted laws that will trigger a by-election if an incumbent lawmaker defects.

Stable government commitment

Saarani said all the state assemblypersons present have stated their commitment to ensuring the government remains stable.

He urged detractors and the opposition to ensure the government's stability to increase investor confidence and fulfil state development plans.

"I also stress that efforts to create a negative perception, such as claiming Islam and Malays are under threat in Perak, must be stopped.

"The reality is this is a collective government that is committed to defending the federal constitution and state constitution," said Saarani.

Assemblypersons who were absent were Nga Kor Ming (Kepayang), Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin (Sungai Rapat), Loh Sze Yee (Jalong) and Muhamad Arafat Varisai Mahamad (Hulu Kinta).

Nga is a federal cabinet minister while Nizar and Loh are Perak cabinet members. Also present at the meeting was Perak legislative assembly speaker Zahid Abdul Khalid. - Mkini