Prominent human rights lawyer Siti Kasim has publicly criticized Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for labelling Malaysians as "foolish" over their differing views and concerns on national issues. In a passionate rebuttal shared on her YouTube channel, Siti argued that holding alternative perspectives is not an act of ignorance, but rather a vital element of a functioning democracy.
"Not two individuals think alike," Siti said, stressing that diverging opinions do not equate to stupidity. She asserted that citizens have the right—and the responsibility—to question those in power, especially when it involves potential abuse, injustice, or violation of rights. To remain silent, she warned, would be a failure to uphold civic duty.
Her comments were a direct response to Anwar’s recent remarks suggesting Malaysians were too eager to stir up drama over what he deemed trivial matters. However, Siti believes the Prime Minister's frustration reflects a broader issue—an unwillingness to be questioned and a tendency to avoid accountability when challenged.
“maybe PMX is more suitable to be a leader of a feudal state whereby the citizens have no other choice than to listen and follow his order. Or as a leader of a dictatorship nation whereby differing opinion and possessing conflicting views with the (supreme) leader is treated as a crime,” she said. In her view, such rhetoric borders on authoritarianism, where disagreement is seen as rebellion rather than constructive engagement.
Siti also criticized Anwar's approach to addressing public concerns. She was of the view that even If someone has misunderstood or misrepresented something, the Prime Minister’s role is to explain with facts and transparency, not dismiss people as foolish.
She further questioned the credibility of Anwar’s claims that certain controversies have been “resolved cordially.” According to her, the term is ambiguous and potentially masks solutions reached through coercion or behind-the-scenes corruption, rather than lawful and fair processes.
Siti Kasim’s sharp critique reflects growing public concern over the government's handling of dissent and criticism. Her comments serve as a reminder that in a healthy democracy, leaders must be open to scrutiny—not shield themselves from it by belittling those who speak up.
Information Source: Focus Malaysia
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