JASIN – “If these efforts are aimed at causing disruption, so be it. But I’m still here, and the government is functioning as usual.”
These were the words of Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Sulaiman Md Ali when asked about speculation that the Umno-led state government could fall at any time.
He declined to comment further on the rumour, only saying that such talk is common in politics.
“As long as I still have the mandate to lead and manage Melaka, I will do what is required. If asked to step down, I will comply,” he told reporters at Dewan Datuk Ibrahim Oxford in Ayer Merbau, Bemban here today.
Asked if he is willing to meet the four assemblymen allegedly planning to defect to the opposition, he said there is no need.
“Anyone who wants to be chief minister can come and meet the leadership. If the other side has enough SDs (statutory declarations), go ahead. I am my normal self; so, too, are the other excos.”
Sulaiman said he does not know whether there are moves to form a unity government, as alleged.
He said he remains focused on resolving the people’s problems related to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I don’t want to talk more about politics. People will hit us and punish us when the time comes. So today, come and join me in developing Melaka. When it’s time for the next general election, then we’ll fight one another.”
It has been speculated since yesterday that the state government, which came into power after Perikatan Nasional took over Melaka from Pakatan Harapan in March, could change hands again soon.
Four reps have purportedly signed SDs to switch to PH. – Bernama, October 2, 2021
