Editor’s note: The following is a reaction by Perikatan Nasional (PN) over our article entitled “Report: Campaign to Change Opposition Leader Intensifying; Shahidan Kassim Named as Favourite” which was published yesterday (April 12).
UNFOUNDED allegations have recently surfaced against opposition leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin by accusing him of being “disinterested in carrying out his duties.”
However, a closer examination of the facts exposes the falsehood of these claims and hints at a hidden political agenda. This effort appears to be a shameful attempt to undermine DS Hamzah’s leadership and the opposition.
Critics like Lim Kit Siang have accused the opposition leader of lacking dedication to crucial issues. Yet, documentation of DS Hamzah’s attendance tells a different story.
His attendance record surpasses that of the Prime Minister (PM) by 11 days. Even after receiving a 28-day medical certificate to recuperate from retinal surgery, DS Hamzah missed only one day of the sessions. His commitment to his constituents in Larut is undeniable.
In contrast, the Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional (PH-BN) coalition’s attendance record in the Dewan Rakyat has been underwhelming with only 36% of the coalition’s MPs present for most parliamentary sessions.
PM Anwar Ibrahim ranks 11th among the top 20 MPs with the most absences, totalling 14 days. This low turnout casts doubt on their seriousness in addressing national issues.
Moreover, the perseverance and tenacity of PAS president Tan Sri Hadi Awang – despite his health challenges and advanced age – should be praised rather than denied. Actively participating in the political process, the Tuan Guru took only a 19-day medical absence.
Under Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s guidance as the Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) chairman, MPs from the coalition enjoy an impressive 58% attendance rate. His significant influence over the political landscape and the public should not be overlooked.
Kit Siang’s orchestrated propaganda campaign to replace DS Hamzah Zainudin appears to be a well-planned strategy aimed at sowing discord within the opposition and diverting attention from the government’s evident shortcomings. What are they attempting to hide? The Najib dilemma? Or the Zahid Saga?
The attempt to overthrow DS Hamzah is a charade as the opposition alliance fully supports his leadership. Unswayed by such divisive tactics, the opposition remains united and committed to presenting a solid and logical alternative to the current PH-BN government.
To keep national growth a top priority, the opposition must maintain its unparalleled unity and press for government transparency and accountability.
With their unity at an all-time high, they pose a threat unlike any seen in the country since its independence. By standing firm and resolute, the opposition can champion positive change and provide the country’s people with hope for a brighter future. – April 13, 2023
Mahathir Mohd Rais is the Perikatan Nasional (PN) information chief for the Federal Territories.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
