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KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed gratitude to his deputy, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, suggesting that the unity government would not have been possible if the Umno president was not firm in his commitment to better the nation.
In a speech at the unity government national convention, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said that today’s gathering is a “great day” for the unity government and Malaysia as it shows his administration’s stability.
“Today’s convention sends a clear signal to citizens and other countries that the government is not just stable, but it is also here to stay to ensure proper governance not bogged down by corrupt practices.
“(Zahid) is one of those who have been attacked a lot, including by me, but I would like to say that without his commitment as Umno president and the support of Umno MPs, the history (of our national politics) would be different,” Anwar said.
Earlier on during his speech, Anwar also thanked other component parties of the unity government, noting that his administration is a “collective effort” that would not have come to pass if party leaders did not stick to their ideals of upholding citizens’ welfare.
“My family and I have been through a lot, but without the dedication showcased by party leaders willing to let go of past grudges and statements made during heated political exchanges, we would not be able to achieve our current unity.
“We are allies not just within the unity government, but also in our shared commitment to form a new Malaysia,” Anwar told thousands of delegates gathered in Dewan Merdeka at Umno headquarters here.
Anwar’s speech today marks the first time he has set foot in the renowned hall after being expelled from Umno in the 1990s by then-party president and prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Prior to Anwar’s address, Zahid had voiced similar praise for the Tambun MP, describing his mentor as a “world-class leader” whose ideals are synonymous with diversity and patriotism. – The Vibes, May 14, 2023