Zambry hopes for quick end to impasse
(NST) IPOH: A good business climate must be maintained in the face of the current uncertainty so that Perak and its people will not suffer.
Sharing his concern about the political impasse in the state, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir urged all Perakians to ensure than business, investment and trade do not lag behind while the leadership crisis is resolved.
He was responding to a comment from a New Straits Times reader named "Perakian" during a live online chat with readers yesterday.
Zambry, who was quite at ease answering questions from readers, also shared his wish to see the political impasse solved soon.
"We hear many views, pros and cons. All want it to be over as soon as possible. I'm no exception. I always believe there is an amicable solution, provided everyone understands the rules and respects the principle of representative democracy," he said to questions from "Ipoh Mali"
He stressed that the tyranny of minority rule must never be allowed, referring to the attempts by Pakatan Rakyat to disrupt BN's administration since the coalition took over the state government.
Zambry said there was no need for BN to seek a fresh mandate.
Responding to "Pendekar Perak", he said: "Many segments in our society also disagree with … fresh elections. As Tun (Dr) Mahathir (Mohamad) said fresh elections will be messy and cost taxpayers' money.
"To me, it is not only about taxpayers' money, but equally important is the principle of representative democracy that has become the backbone of our politics.
"When PR formed a loose government we never questioned the majority rule. Now (when) it comes to BN with a simple majority, why is it being questioned that we must go back (to the) people?"
Asked whether BN would eventually take over Perak, Zambry said: "Every party must be prepared to face any eventuality. But before we go into it, we have to clear the mess as we are fully aware of the fact that there is so much misperception and misunderstanding."
Zambry spent one hour with readers from 3pm. He was reluctant to end his online session, but he had urgent business in Tronoh.
He said he enjoyed the opportunity to interact live with readers.
"This is one of the ways to get connected directly with the people. The NST Live segment should be continued."
He promised to answer questions and issues raised, which he could not answer on his new blog at www.zambry.com.
