It is the Opposition’s right to plot govt’s downfall, says Hadi

(The Star) – The Opposition has every right to try and topple the unity government, says Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang (pic).

In defending his earlier remarks, the PAS president clarified that his statement was merely political in nature and something that is “normal”.

“Matters like a vote of no confidence, collecting statutory declarations (SDs) and government supporters who are no longer loyal – this is normal.

“We have the right to plan, and no one can stop us making the plans,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby here on Monday (March 6) when asked to clarify his remarks about attempts by the Opposition to topple the Federal Government.

Abdul Hadi also claimed that there were some hints of cracks in the unity government.

“We are seeing some signs of unhappiness by component parties.

“That is happening now and it is not something impossible,” he said.

Asked if such efforts were against the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s advice not to create instability, he said the country upholds the Constitution and practises democracy.

On Friday (March 3), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim chided Abdul Hadi for predicting that the unity government would collapse before the end of its term.

“It’s fine, it’s his right to plan and dream,” Anwar told reporters briefly after performing Friday prayers at the Universiti Putra Malaysia mosque.

On a separate matter, Abdul Hadi said there was no issue with Opposition leaders being taken to court on corruption-related charges.

“They can be charged, even PAS welcomes it. We can be charged.

“But Pakatan Harapan must be fair when it comes to such cases,” he said, adding that charging someone does not mean the person is guilty.

Two Bersatu leaders – Tasek Gelugor MP Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan and Segambut Bersatu deputy chief Adam Radlan Adam Muhammad – were charged last month for allegedly accepting bribes concerning the Jana Wibawa scheme.

They pleaded not guilty to all charges.