KUALA LUMPUR – Raging against the government’s decision to go for early polls during the monsoon season, opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysians must vote to correct the wrongs and imbalances caused by those in power.
He said the decision to dissolve Parliament effective today to pave the way for an early 15th general election (GE15) was an “offence against decent Malaysians” who are struggling with cost-of-living issues and other hardships.
“What kind of person, what kind of political party, what kind of government – would risk the lives of people for an election?
“Do not be fooled by this selfish government when it says an election must happen now to return the mandate to the people,” he said in a statement in response to the dissolution today.
The PKR president said if holding GE15 put voters in harm’s way and makes it difficult for people to vote, the election will then be tantamount to cheating.
“It is no real election – it is tantamount to cheating to win at all costs. This is called voter suppression.”
Listing the scandals of those in power – from 1Malaysia Development Bhd to the littoral combat ships fiasco – and the failures of the government to ensure accessible healthcare, education and jobs, Anwar urged voters to correct these wrongs.
“It is finally time to fix this mess. It is time to reclaim our country from the robbers and oppressors.
“It is time to take back the country from those who enrich themselves and their families and their cronies while the vast majority of the people struggle to pay for rent and food.”
He also made special mention of youth voters as new laws now allow 18-year-olds to vote.
“To the young people of Malaysia, I say this: your choices in this election will affect the future for all Malaysians.”
He also acknowledged the disillusionment many Malaysians have after the Sheraton Move, urging them not to give up and to reclaim the country from “treacherous” politicians.
“Did you think we could reverse 60 years of entrenched corruption and kleptocracy with just one election? Did you think these conniving robbers and thieves would just give up?
“We don’t give up, either. We don’t give up, ever.”
He said if people are worried about the economy, their jobs, their children’s education, and a myriad of other issues, then they must vote.
Caretaker prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced Parliament’s dissolution this afternoon, after months of intense pressure from the top leaders of his party, Umno. – The Vibes, October 10, 2022
