BY: DATO’ SERI MOHAMED AZMIN ALI
SHAH ALAM, JAN 26: The nation is in the grip of an economic crisis and a breakdown of governance of unprecedented proportions. Consequently, the people are suffering while our national pride and honour is at stake.
This crisis warrants nothing less than leadership which is principled, of integrity and one that is respected by the people. The people must remain united and this can only come about with a proper consensus among the political parties, NGOs and individuals who are committed to reform.
The people of Malaysia have grown accustomed to a two-party system. The people are ready for greater reform. Leaders must therefore have the requisite humility and willingness to unite in order to fulfil the aspirations of the people.
Recent developments point to the winds of change sweeping the national political landscape demanding that leaders of political parties review their overall strategy to win the hearts and minds of the people.
Pakatan Harapan was formed. The establishment of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) is aimed at restoring the original struggle for the cause of Islam and the Malays. These developments herald the coming of a new tsunami that is set to be unleashed in the coming 14th General Elections.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (KEADILAN) stands ready to play its role in strengthening the political coalition of progressive parties and to enhance the level of cooperation and partnership to an even higher level in the name of fulfilling the people’s legitimate expectations.
In this regard, KEADILAN welcomes the recent statement by YB Lim Kit Siang that DAP is willing to work with all parties, including PAS to topple BN. I regard this as a positive step towards the strengthening of the coalition of all relevant parties with the interests of the people and the nation being treated with the highest priority.
This requires wisdom and an inclusive approach and the setting aside of partisan differences for the overarching objective of saving the nation from the shackles of corrupt leaders and a government of kleptocrats.
The future of the nation and the people is at stake. It is only through the unified strength of progressive parties working closely that we can defeat BN, even as it appears to be in the throes of death.
However, we can only achieve consensus through discussion and negotiation which is a complex process. Patience and understanding from all sides is vital but it is imperative that we do this for the sake of the people and the nation. Yet, I am confident that we can succeed if it is done in the spirit of give and take, mutual trust and of sacrifice for the greater good.
I recognize and understand the focus that is currently being given by the top leadership of PAS with regard to their 2017 annual party conference which will be held soon.
I believe that the PAS leadership has wisdom and experience. I daresay PAS members also want a clean government and that they are committed to the principles of justice and of fighting corruption to save the country for our future generations.
KEADILAN will continue discussions and negotiations with PAS, PPBM and other parties in order to bring about a better Malaysia. Our programs for the welfare of the people remain paramount and are progressing smoothly particularly at the state and grassroots level.
