Anwar: Pakatan in Selangor plagued by problems

(MM) – Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has admitted that Pakatan Rakyat (PR)-led Selangor were plagued with several serious problems, which led him to contest for the Kajang state seat.

Anwar said the ongoing controversial issue relating to the use of the word “Allah” and seizures of the Bible prompted him to “step in” to assist Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim.

“Khalid is a good leader and is doing well managing the state’s economy. But due to the onslaught of issues levelled towards his administration, it is definitely hard to overcome them,” said Anwar, who is also Permatang Pauh MP.

Anwar also claimed that interference by the Federal government made it difficult for Khalid and the Selangor government to resolve those issues.

Anwar spoke to reporters after attending a gathering with his constituents in Penanti on Saturday to explain his decision to contest in Kajang following the resignation of its incumbent Lee Chin Cheh last week.

Asked if there were any internal crises within Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Anwar replied such issues are normal.

“The bigger issue here is diffusing the pressure and attacks on Khalid’s administration,” said Anwar, adding he also sought the opinions of component leaders in PR.

As for the possibility of getting in trouble with the Sultan of Selangor if he is appointed the new menteri besar, Anwar said it is unfair for him to speculate.

“We will not complicate the role of the Ruler,” he added.

Anwar was later asked about DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng’s claim that he was not aware of Anwar’s decision to contest in Kajang, to which the PKR advisor said he should have explained the matter in depth to Lim.

“However, due to time constraints, I was not able to explain to him,” said Anwar.