Today, Malaysians celebrate Malaysia Day – the day our country became whole and
our people become united. This day has a new meaning. After years of struggle,
after fighting against a system that is corrupt and unjust – we affirm that
victory is finally at hand. Our vision of rebuilding this country and bringing
its people together, as the founding fathers envisioned, is within reach.
The economy is in turmoil with runaway inflation and joblessness creating
widespread discontent. Racial tensions have been rising, exacerbated by the
propaganda spread in the government owned mainstream media. The administration
has offered no vision to steer the nation out of this quagmire and there is
manifest erosion in confidence in the current government.
We in Pakatan Rakyat believe we can save Malaysia from economic ruin and the
dangerous politics of racism. We will do so prudently, legally and in doing so
we will not jeopardise the security and stability of the country and the safety
of its people.
We have received firm commitments from members of parliament in excess of the
number required to form a new government, and our government will reflect the
diverse make–up of Malaysian society.
It has been our concern to ensure a peaceful transition of power. We do not wish
to see a repeat of what transpired in the Selangor and Perak state governments,
where following the victory of Pakatan Rakyat on March 8, documents were
shredded and removed by the outgoing administration.
We furthermore advise radical elements within BN against the abuse of state
power to unlawfully harass and detain our supporters.
The immediate investigation by the ACA (Anti–Corruption Agency) of Yong Teck Lee
after the announcement by SAPP (Sabah Progressive Party) of its intention to
move a motion of no–confidence against Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is another example
of the tactics we reject.
The use of the ISA, as has happened to MP Teresa Kok, would be an unlawful
impediment to the transition process.
In light these serious concerns, yesterday leaders of Pakatan Rakyat sent a
letter to the prime minister at 2.30pm requesting a meeting to discuss the
future course of the nation's leadership and to seek his assurance on the
following important matters:
1) That the BN shall not hinder or prevent their BN MPs from acting in
accordance with their conscience, constitutional rights and independent
judgment;
2) That the BN government shall not invoke the Internal Security Act to detain
any of the MPs who will join Pakatan Rakyat, or any of the present 82 Pakatan
Rakyat MPs;
3) That the BN government shall not invoke emergency or police powers, or
suspend the constitution, or dissolve parliament in response to our intention to
form a new government;
4) That the Barisan Nasional government shall not impose roadblocks and impede
the MPs from gaining access to the House of Parliament and the institutions of
government.
We believe the prime minister will share Pakatan Rakyat's concerns for the
welfare of the people and security of the nation. We are confident he will
ensure the BN will act constitutionally and democratically to ensure that the
transition will be peaceful, and there will be no actions taken to sabotage the
wishes of the people or play on racial tensions in the country.
We appeal to all quarters in Malaysian society to understand our intentions are
for the betterment of Malaysian society. The mainstream media, in particular,
should accept the reality of these historic times and report fairly, accurately
and without bias. The irresponsible tact that is used by the media to obfuscate
issues, attack opposition supporters and instigate racial tensions must end
immediately.
Following our meeting with the prime minister, we intend to proceed within the
framework established by the federal constitution in the formation of a new
government, with the assent of the Yang di–Pertuan Agong.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
Opposition Leader
De facto PKR leader
Anwar's Press Statement on September 16
16 Sep 2008 12:00 am