SHAH ALAM, 8 Oct: The move to challenge the former Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, to contest in the Pekan Parliament in the next general election does not make sense just because he has been vocal about criticising Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
The PAS Deputy president, Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, said that instead the Prime Minister, who is also the incumbent for the Pekan Parliamentary seat, should accept reprimands and criticism from any party openly.
“This is one view or a challenge that us absurd. It is not necessary when one criticises, reprimands a leader, we would immediately challenge him to contest at the place of the leader who is being criticised.
“Reprimanding a leader is the issue, while contesting is another issue. As a leader, he has to be open to listening to views and criticisms, while supporters and also members should not make baseless challenges.
“Should this be the case, then we cannot criticise. I think that Tun Mahathir’s time has passed for him to contest in the election. I think that he himself does not plan to compete. If they want, challenge others,” said Tuan Ibrahim to Selangor Kini today.
Earlier, Dr Mahatir, who held the post of Prime Minister ofr 22 years, is among the most vocal individuals criticising Najib, especially regarding the 1MDB issue.
Meanwhile, Ali Tinju is considered as one of the staunch supporters who is trying to defend Najib, including causing a stir during the Nothing2Hide dialogue and being actively involved in the Red Rally recently.
NS
