DATUK Zaid Ibrahim has pushed back against criticism over his latest political move, rejecting claims that his career trajectory reflects failure and instead framing it as a consistent pursuit of reform.
In a strongly worded response, the former law minister took aim at corporate figure Datuk Vinod Sekhar, who penned a scathing critique of Zaid’s shifting political affiliations, describing it as “The Tragedy of Zaid Ibrahim”.
Zaid, however, declined to dwell on lengthy justifications, insisting that his record speaks for itself.
He recounted spending nearly three decades in UMNO, where he said he pushed for internal reforms before being dismissed over his opposition to the Internal Security Act (ISA).
He later resigned from his ministerial post and joined PKR, believing the party was committed to structural change.
“That turned out not to be the case,” he said.
Zaid added that he subsequently joined DAP with similar expectations, including plans to contest in Gelang Patah, though that too did not materialise.
His latest move — joining PAS — has drawn the most scrutiny, given the party’s ideological positioning. Still, Zaid said he welcomed the opportunity and expressed hope of contesting in the next general election.
“I believe I can still contribute to the country,” he said.
Questioning why his political path had triggered such backlash, Zaid argued that critics were missing the larger picture.
He also signalled that he would, in due course, outline his vision for rebuilding Malaysia, suggesting that PAS could provide a foundation rooted in moral leadership, reduced corruption, and a stronger emphasis on public welfare and justice.
“Why are you so afraid that I might succeed?” he asked in a pointed closing remark directed at his detractors. - June 16, 2026
Read also: The tragedy of Zaid Ibrahim
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