PAS, DAP lawmakers split on PKR candidate for Kajang by-election
(TMI) – Kajang assemblyman Lee Chin Cheh’s shock resignation is further fuelling the roiling political situation in Selangor as both DAP and PAS lawmakers disagree over the selection method for his replacement, who could be the next Selangor menteri besar.
PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is due to clear the air today over the latest episode in Selangor PKR, which has been beset with a war between state chief Azmin Ali and two-term menteri besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim.
Lee’s resignation has led to PAS demanding PKR discuss with Pakatan Rakyat (PR) allies before deciding on the candidate while the DAP has maintained that PKR can name anyone. Both parties hold 15 seats each while PKR has 13 now after Lee quit the 56-seat state assembly yesterday.
PAS Hulu Klang assemblyman Saari Sungib insisted the choice of the candidate will affect the Selangor government and as such, PKR cannot isolate PAS and DAP when choosing the candidate.
“Especially if this candidate is later slated to be the next menteri besar,” he told The Malaysian Insider, referring to speculation that Khalid will step down soon after the by-election.
The popular Khalid is serving his second term as menteri besar after the former corporate captain first stood in Election 2008.
