Anwar respects Agong’s decree for political ceasefire

KUALA LUMPUR – Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says he respects the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s call for a political ceasefire amid the Covid-19 surge. 

In a statement tonight, the PKR president said the party will ensure all efforts in handling the health crisis, issues of unemployment and poverty, and the economic development will be implemented in a more effective manner. 

“I take note the Agong’s advice that political leaders, including MPs, should not be politicking excessively, and this ought to be appreciated and observed. 

“Political leaders should be concerned and should shoulder their responsibilities in line with the spirit of constitution and accountability to the rakyat, the parliamentary institution and the country.

“This is to ensure demands related to justice, rejection of corruption and the limiting of power abuse can be balanced,” he said. 

Anwar’s statement came in light of the royal decree earlier today for politicians to cease all politicking that could harm the country’s stability. 

The Agong had said there is no need for MPs to continue with irresponsible actions that could affect the country, and urged all quarters to focus their efforts in battling Covid-19.

His Majesty also decreed that there would be no need for a declaration of emergency as he trusts in the current government’s ability in handling the pandemic.

The decision follows a meeting between the Agong and the Malay rulers amid a political imbroglio that has seen Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s position come under heavy scrutiny.

Muhyiddin had met with the Agong on Friday evening after a special Cabinet meeting earlier that day decided to call for an emergency, as a measure to address the Covid-19 situation.

Critics, however, argued that the move was merely a desperate attempt for Muhyiddin to stay in power, after Anwar’s claim of majority support in the Dewan Rakyat raised concern that the upcoming Budget 2021 could be rejected.

Commenting on His Majesty’s decision to not accede to Muhyiddin’s proposal for an emergency, Anwar said he welcomes the Agong’s stand.

“The historic decision made by the Agong in rejecting the motion by the prime minister and the cabinet to declare emergency has further strengthened the country's constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy system.

“It is clearly a decision that is made based on the spirit of the constitution and in understanding the voices of the people,” Anwar said. – The Vibes, October 25, 2020