PKR denies cracks in coalition
(The Star) – Several Pakatan Rakyat elected representatives have come forward to refute claims that cracks are appearing in the coalition due to the open sparring by its members recently.
They are also strongly dismissing claims by the opposition that there is a racial split between its members.
Selangor Umno liaison chief Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib had said that there were not merely problems between leaders of PKR, Pas and DAP but also strife between Indian and Malay PKR leaders.
He had added that Kapar MP S. Manikavasagams resignation as Selangor deputy liaison chairman on Wednesday was indicative of this.
This had been echoed by former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Khir Toyo.
“Open criticism within us is very common as we are very democratic,” said Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Maria Mahmud.
Dr Siti Maria, who is from Pas, said it might be difficult for some to understand this as it was not a common practice for them.
In Umno and Barisan Nasional they are not used to criticising their leadership or speaking up, so it may appear to be a problem for them, she added.
DAP member and Pandamaran assemblyman Ronnie Liu concurred and said Pakatan Rakyat did not repress anyone from speaking-up.
“Everyone is free to voice their differences and to speak-up,” said Liu dismissing claims of racial strife within the coalition.
He said that even though there might be some differences in opinion, all coalition members strove towards a common goal.
“The Pakatan Rakyat coalition members all share the common goal of serving everyone equally regardless of their race and even political affiliation,” said Liu.
PKR state exco member Dr Xavier Jayakumar also dismissed the allegations made by the Barisan leader.
They should not turn this into a racial issue between an Indian MP and a Malay Mentri Besar, said Dr Xavier.
PKR state assemblyman for Kota Anggerik and exco member Yaakob Sapari said it was untrue that Indians had a problem with PKR.
“I had a meeting with Indians in Puchong several days ago and they are fully backing the Pakatan Rakyat coalition, he said.
DAP’s state assemblyman for Skinchan Ng Suee Lim said the state’s opposition party was turning a small misunderstanding into a big problem.
“They are pouring fuel over fire. We may be a new coalition but we will not fall prey to Barisan’s political games, he added.
