Tugas Anwar bukan perkukuh Umno, pemimpin PKR jawab Sangeet

A prominent figure from the People's Justice Party (PKR) has refuted claims that Anwar Ibrahim is strengthening Umno at the expense of DAP while emphasizing that the prime minister's role is not to bolster any single party within a coalition government. Wilayah Persekutuan PKR chairman Azman Abidin spoke with FMT on the matter. According to Azman, the prime minister's responsibility is to manage the government comprised of various parties, not to strengthen any one particular party.

He clarified that when the prime minister cooperates with Umno leadership, it does not mean he is strengthening Umno to weaken DAP.

Azman, who also serves as the prime minister's chief of staff, explained that political cooperation necessitates collaboration with all parties within the government, not just those with which they have a more amicable relationship. He argued that perceptions of a close relationship between the prime minister and Umno are often due to political perceptions rather than the reality of the coalition government's functioning.

Sangeet Kaur Deo, a DAP Kuala Lumpur representative, demanded that the party reevaluate its relationship with Anwar, alleging that the prime minister is strengthening Umno and sidelining allies in the coalition government. Sangeet also questioned Umno's open criticism of DAP, despite both parties being part of the federal government, alongside Anwar's alleged failure to unite the coalition.

However, Azman did not view this animosity as a pressure tactic against Anwar, but rather as an expression of differing views within the party. He believes that criticism and disagreements between parties are common, but they should be addressed through disciplined discourse to avoid open feuding that could undermine the stability of the government.

"If something can be resolved at the table of discussion, resolve it at the table of discussion. If necessary, bring it to the Cabinet. If there is a need to clarify, communicate and find a solution," he emphasized.