Anwar: No debate with Zaid
It’s not in my programme, says the PKR de facto leader, while Khalid brushes aside an allegation he would be booted out as MB by Selcat
K Pragalath, FMT
Anwar Ibrahim will not debate former PKR vice-president, Zaid Ibrahim, who has offered himself as an Independent candidate in the Kajang by-election.
“It is not in my programme,” said the PKR de facto leader and Pakatan Rakyat candidate for the by-election, after launching PKR Youth wing’s election machinery at Taman Delima, Kajang last night.
Anwar, who is also Permatang Pauh MP, said this in response to the former Umno stalwart and Kita party founder, who said a debate would show Kajang folk that he (Zaid) was a more credible candidate.
Zaid dared Anwar to have the debate in Kajang. He also wanted to know why Anwar was a better man for the Menteri Besar’s position currently held by Khalid Ibrahim.
“I want the debate to cover everything. Personality. Policies. Consistency. Integrity. Let’s examine. So that once and for all, we can settle this,” Zaid told FMT in an interview earlier this week.
Speculation is rife that Anwar is contesting the state seat in an effort to eventually take over the Menteri Besar’s post from Khalid.
Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin claimed yesterday that Khalid would have to face the Selangor select committee for competency, accountability and transparency (Selcat) over the manner PKR deputy president and Selangor Backbenchers’ Club chief, Azmin Ali was booted out from PKNS.
No comment from Khalid
In the event Khalid refuses to step down, he would be found guilty and forced to resign from his position as Selangor Menteri Besar, said Raja Petra.
Khalid, who was present at the launch, when approached on the matter, brushed aside Raja Petra’s allegations saying that it was not an issue now.
