GEORGE TOWN – Warisan unveiled its “secret weapon” to woo support in the general election when it disclosed that former PKR deputy secretary-general S. Raveentharan has decided to join the party in Penang.
State Warisan chairman Jeff Ooi told a press conference that the former Batu Uban assemblyman would help the Sabah-based party capture more votes, especially among the Indian community.
To mark the occasion, Ooi also announced that Raveentharan was appointed as the state Warisan legal adviser.
A Penang-based human rights lawyer, Raveentharan is known for his outspoken nature, especially on the rights of the downtrodden.
Not wasting time, Raveentharan took the opportunity to launch a barrage of attacks against Pakatan Harapan’s Bayan Baru incumbent Sim Tze Tzin, 46.
Raveentharan said Sim was non-committal after plans were revealed that Kedah wanted to develop Kulim International Airport on the mainland.
“This undermines the status of Penang International Airport (PIA), which is near Bayan Lepas. Why did Sim decide to keep mum over the issue?” asked Raveentharan.
Since the announcement was made public, Sim chose to ignore the issue – when as Bayan Baru MP, he should be battling “tooth and nail” to ensure that PIA remains relevant to air travel in the northern region, said Raveentharan.
He also urged Sim, who is seeking a third term, to do something about the worsening traffic in the constituency and to bring about the quality of life the constituents crave for.
“Sim is seeking a third term. He should know that this is the term to execute promises and not to make fresh ones,” said Raveentharan.
On his reasons for leaving PKR, Raveentharan said that it was unfortunate that the party’s reformist agenda has become stagnant.
“Once the party tasted power, it was more about staying in power rather than carrying out the reforms that the country needs. I wish my former comrades well though.”
Raveentharan plans to help Ooi campaign in Bayan Baru. – The Vibes, November 14, 2022
