Anwar must be more decisive in office, say analysts

 

Anwar Ibrahim with other members of his government, which was formed by an alliance of several political coalitions after the inconclusive general election last year. (Bernama pic)

PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim cannot afford to be overly cautious about his support for reforms to the point of holding them back, according to a political analyst.

Jeniri Amir, a fellow of the Council of Professors, said Anwar’s dependence on the support of several parties for his government should not prevent him from making tough decisions even if they are unpopular with his allies.

“Anwar’s brand and platform is one of reforms. What reforms has he delivered so far?” said Jeniri. “Where is the repeal of draconian laws, the separation of the role of the attorney-general and public prosecutor, bold reforms like the recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate or equal allocations for all MPs?”

Jeniri said even the post of domestic trade and cost of living minister had not been filled. “It has been vacant for three months. That’s a low-hanging fruit, just make an appointment,” he said.

Anwar should not compromise on his core principles even though compromises are normal in politics, Jeniri said. “He needs to be a bit more ruthless and more decisive,” Jeniri told FMT. “Otherwise it will affect his personal branding and support for Pakatan Harapan.”

Last week, the Tunku Mahkota of Johor, Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, had accused Anwar of lacking decisiveness in his leadership. Tunku Ismail said Anwar should be braver when making decisions as he knows he cannot please everyone.

Another political analyst, Oh Ei Sun of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, remarked on Anwar’s difficult position as the opposition Perikatan Nasional was likely to oppose the implementation of any meaningful reforms.

“It is quite likely that reforms would be portrayed as being against the interests of Malays and Muslims, and this could cost support for Anwar and the unity coalition he leads,” said Oh.

“I believe this is why Anwar has not yet executed reforms even though he is known as a reformist.”

Oh said Anwar should be more decisive on economic matters, even if he has to hold back on reforms that may not be politically popular. - FMT