Anwar feels vindicated, will help opposition form state governments

KUALA LUMPUR, Sat: 

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim appeared calm early this morning when he announced that his first priority would be to assist the opposition to form the state governments in Kedah, Perak, Penang, Selangor and Kelantan.

The former deputy prime minister who could not contest this general election due to his conviction said the issue of appointing a menteri besar and a chief minister would be handled soon.

“Except for a state where a party has an absolute majority, we will have to consult with our partners, and to seek an audience with the respective sultans and Yang Dipertua Negeri,” he said at the 1.30am press conference here.

Anwar, who is also Parti Keadilan Rakyat de facto leader, said the results were not unexpected as his party as well as DAP and Pas had announced that they were going to deny Barisan Nasional’s two-thirds majority.

On whether there would be some kind of celebration, Anwar said: “Celebration is not something unusual. But in light of the shock to BN and Umno, we have advised our supporters to remain calm and not to be easily provoked and not to organise any rallies and celebrations.
“We’ve communicated this matter to our opposition partners and I personally informed DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng who also agreed with our view.”

On his political plans, Anwar said he had a lot of work to do in assisting the formation of the state governments, especially ensuring the new wakil rakyat to be committed to the people.

“Whether I would want to run for (a by-election), it can be done later. There’s no urgency for me to do it,” he said.

He also said he felt vindicated by Malaysians who voted for the opposition, thanking them for their decisive votes.

“I’m really touched by the support and affection shown by Malaysians,” he added.

--NST