The 12 PKR elected representatives, who called for a review of the Palestine Solidarity Week initiative in schools, said their stand has been misinterpreted.
In a statement this afternoon, the 12 devoted the first three paragraphs to condemning Israel’s aggression against the Palestinian people, calling on the United Nations to impose sanctions on Israel and to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches those in Gaza.
They then clarified that their earlier statement, which aired concerns about elements of extremism in the Palestine Solidarity Week, should not be interpreted as opposing Palestine or supporting Israel.
“Some of us have stated our opposition to Israel’s atrocities in Parliament, state legislatures and even international platforms,” they said.
The politicians slammed PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan, who urged them to be "more careful" in the matter so that they are not seen as trying to paint the wrong picture of the Palestinian struggle.
"Takiyuddin's claim that our narrative mirrors the Western media's propaganda is shallow and malicious. It also shows his narrow political outlook, which labels any constructive suggestion as siding with a party.
"Such tactics would not help in getting people to support the Palestinian struggle. The Palestinian struggle is not only a religious fight but it’s also a fight for freedom by oppressed people," the lawmakers said, adding that therefore, it is crucial to create a constructive discourse on the matter to garner public support.
"We are surprised that Takiyuddin, who has never commended the government's act in condemning Israel's tyranny, is suddenly polemicising the issue with baseless allegations," they added.
PKR open to diverse views
According to them, PKR does not adopt a “fascist” approach in handling any issue or differences in opinion, especially a sensitive matter like the Palestinian struggle.
"Our support is in line with PKR's fight for human dignity and basic freedom. We are firm in our stand to not support any apartheid movement.
"We would like to reiterate our support, and are ready to help initiatives by the rakyat to fight for humanity, and solidarity for the Palestinian people."
Following their initial statement, the PKR 12 had received “friendly fire” from Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh who suggested they be sent to Palestine so that they could clearly understand what was going on there.
Former rivals PKR and Umno are now allies in the ruling coalition government. - Mkini
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