PKR supremo Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim lauded the Government’s idea to allow Opposition leaders airtime on national television to air their views on the Melaka state polls.
“With that said, I like to suggest for an open debate to be organised via live telecast between Melaka chief minister candidates from Pakatan Harapan, Barisan Nasional and Perikatan Nasional.
“I believe the suggestion, if taken up, will make Malaysia a mature and healthy democracy,” he said, in a Twitter post.
Yesterday, Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa said that RTM may grant Opposition candidates some airtime for the upcoming Melaka state polls.
He said this following request was made by Pakatan leaders following COVID-19 restrictions imposed during campaigning; which bars public visits, gatherings and ceramah.
“I’m aware of the request and we are looking into the matter. I will have a discussion with RTM and it is important to make some kind of arrangement to give them an opportunity on this.
“I will make an announcement in two days’ time,” The Vibes reported the Ketereh MP as saying.
Echoing Anwar’s sentiments, Johor DAP chairman Liew Chin Tong said that the campaign ban issued by the Government had made campaigning difficult for everyone.
“Hence, it’s only fair that the Government allows us access to the official media. We can also have debates like the one recently held between Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong and former Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng.
“Debates among candidates from key constituencies should also be organised,” the former Deputy Defence Minister opined. – Nov 11, 2021.
