“The voice of the people should not be used as a tool to fulfill the political ambitions of certain parties,” said Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, Senior Political Secretary to the Prime Minister.
He pointed out that the Unity Government under Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim fully respects the people’s right to speak up and gather peacefully, as guaranteed by the constitution. That’s why, he said, there’s been no harsh crackdowns, no tear gas, and no destruction of rally stages.
However, he drew a clear line between genuine public sentiment and political agendas that try to rope in the people just to justify a hunger for power.
“The government led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stands on an electoral mandate. If Tan Sri Muhyiddin and his coalition believe the people’s voice has changed, the proper arena is clear, elections.”
“Not through street platforms, not through exaggerated numbers, and not by manipulating racial and religious issues to incite emotions,” he added.
He also emphasised that the Madani Government is committed to listening to everyday Malaysians, not just the loud voices on political rally stages.
“The people have the right to assemble. But the people’s voice must not be exploited. Democracy must not be held hostage for revenge and power,” he said in a statement.
Shamsul was responding to comments made by Perikatan Nasional (PN) Chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who reminded Anwar of his past remarks that the people’s voice is a “sacred voice” that must be heard.
Muhyiddin had called on Anwar to step down, following the ‘Turun Anwar’ rally to which Shamsul fired back by saying, “Now Muhyiddin attacks the Unity Government led by Anwar, but when he was Prime Minister, why did he fail to build an inclusive and stable government?”
“Instead, Malaysia at the time was served with drama of shifting support, ministerial reshuffles, and ultimately he fell due to losing the majority,” he claimed.
What do you think of his comments?
