Anwar urges Loke to reconsider resignation as minister

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has encouraged transport minister Loke Siew Fook to reconsider his decision to resign from the Cabinet, following the conditional pardon given to former prime minister Najib Razak. Anwar stressed that the DAP should not be swayed by individuals seeking to destabilize the government through pressure for a withdrawal.

He maintained that Loke did not contribute to the conditional pardon and that he had opposed it. Anwar expressed respect for Loke and the DAP's principles against kleptocracy and corruption, which made it challenging for them to accept the Federal Territories Pardons Board's decision. He offered Loke space and time to explain his stance and reconsider his resignation, emphasizing that it would not jeopardize the transport ministry's operations.

The prime minister also cautioned against attempts to manipulate the issue by suggesting a compromise between him and the Umno leadership regarding Najib's pardon. His administration's focus is on steering the nation wisely, maintaining political stability, preserving good relations with the Malay Rulers, and fostering economic growth.