'Showmen' around PM must be humble, not paranoid: Ex-minister
Published: Jul 23, 2024 12:22 PM
Former law minister Zaid Ibrahim has reminded Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to advise those around him to be humble instead of belittling others to cover their weaknesses.
Taking to X, Zaid (above) called out Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, and other “showmen” for being easily provoked, leading them to exaggerate in reaction to criticism.
“The problem with this Madani government is that people around Anwar are not terribly competent.
“Because of their weaknesses, they are usually easily provoked, and their reactions to criticism are overkill. That’s why they have to rely on the police and MCMC (Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission),” his post read.
On July 22, lawyer and organiser of the “Rakyat Lawan Anwar” rally, Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali, was questioned under the Sedition Act 1948 for calling Anwar a “scammer” for alleged unfulfilled promises during a June anti-government rally held outside the premier’s official residence in Putrajaya.
Before the rally, Putrajaya PKR chief Fitri Aziz filed a police report against the organiser, claiming the rally threatened national security and was an attempt to incite the public to overthrow the government and sabotage economic recovery plans.
Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali
Zaid said the investigation against Rafique was uncalled for.
“If the Sedition Act is going to be our staple diet, then this country will never be free.
“Anwar himself said the Sedition Act would be used only to curb 3R-related issues. Has Anwar become royalty now since he can’t be classified under race or religion?” he asked.
While questioning why some leaders are overly paranoid about criticism, Zaid said instead of relying on the authorities, the government should use its resources and social media to produce its own information.
“The police must remain cool on personal attacks against the prime minister.
“I urge Anwar to tell the police to let the lawyer off and continue talking unimpeded. It’s good for Anwar’s own image,” he added.
Zaid said the investigation against Rafique was uncalled for.
“If the Sedition Act is going to be our staple diet, then this country will never be free.
“Anwar himself said the Sedition Act would be used only to curb 3R-related issues. Has Anwar become royalty now since he can’t be classified under race or religion?” he asked.
While questioning why some leaders are overly paranoid about criticism, Zaid said instead of relying on the authorities, the government should use its resources and social media to produce its own information.
“The police must remain cool on personal attacks against the prime minister.
“I urge Anwar to tell the police to let the lawyer off and continue talking unimpeded. It’s good for Anwar’s own image,” he added.
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