KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is facing opposition and attempts to disrupt the unity government as a result of his reform agenda, particularly efforts to eradicate corruption, which are upsetting many, a senior aide to the prime minister said.
Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin, Anwar’s senior political secretary, said certain parties are dissatisfied with his reform proposals due to the benefits they have reaped from weak governance, weak institutions, and entrenched corruption.
“They are concerned that the privileges they have enjoyed will come to an end.
“That is why they are accusing the prime minister of using agencies like the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to seek revenge and target his political adversaries,” Shamsul said in a statement.
Shamsul added that such accusations against Anwar were ironic since the prime minister has always held the independence of the MACC to be an important pillar of his reform agenda.
“We must acknowledge that the current economic crisis is a result of pervasive corruption.
“A strong anti-corruption agenda is essential to safeguard the country and future generations,” he added.
For the sake of the country’s future, it is important to prevent certain individuals involved in corruption from returning to positions of power, he also said.
Shamsul’s statement follows Anwar’s remarks two days ago at a Hari Raya Korban event at a mosque in Bukit Mertajam, Penang, where the prime minister said there are “wealthy people” conspiring against him and the unity government.
He did not name anyone but said these people had been benefiting from “billions plundered” from the country through corruption.
Anwar said he remains undeterred by the threats and will continue to uphold his principles for the betterment of the people. - The Vibes, July 2, 2023
