Zaid’s resignation “last nail in the coffin” of Abdullah’s repeat of reform pledges after March 8 “political tsunami”

Senator Datuk Zaid Ibrahim’s announcement this morning that his decision to resign as Minister in the Prime Minister’s DepAartment is final despite being advised by the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to reconsider the move is the “last nail in the coffin” of Abdullah’s repeat of reform pledges after the March 8 “political tsunami”.

It is clear that the detentions of DAP MP for Seputeh and Selangor Senior Exco Teresa Kok and Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the nefarious and iniquitous Internal Security Act (ISA) were the last straw causing Zaid to submit his resignation after a six-month stint in the Cabinet, making him the only Minister in the nation’s history to resign on a matter of principle.

When Zaid was surprisingly appointed by Abdullah to be a Minister after the Barisan Nasional debacle in the March general election, it was clear that Zaid had a special agenda – to retrieve Abdullah’s credibility and legitimacy as a Reform Prime Minister by carrying out reforms in the important sectors of the judiciary, the police and anti-corruption.

Zaid’s resignation is an admission that Abdullah’s repeat pledge of the reform programme after the March political tsunami has come to the end of the road, that:

• there is not going to be any Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission (IPCMC), the key recommendation of the Royal Police Commission to create an efficient, incorruptible, professional world-class police service to keep crime low and protect human rights;

• there is not going to be any meaningful Judicial Appointments Commission to restore national and international confidence in the independence, impartiality, integrity and quality of the judiciary – and that for the first time in the 51-year history of the nation, an UMNO Chief Justice will be appointed next month, plunging the country into a new round of judicial crisis and darkness; and

• there is little hope that an all-out war against corruption would be launched to place Malaysia among the world’s least-corrupt nations

With the recent gross abuses of the ISA – the scandal of the 18-hour detention of Sin Chew senior reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and the arrests of MP Teresa Kok and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin – the Abdullah administration has finally given up the ghost about its pretensions of being a reformist government.

When Zaid submitted his resignation on Monday, Abdullah asked Zaid to take two weeks’ leave to think it over, suggesting that Zaid was “exhausted”.

This was a most insensitive and irresponsible comment, prompting many to say that the person who should take two weeks’ leave to think over his role in government and contribution to Malaysian nation is none other than Abdullah himself.
The Prime Minister should take the opportunity to ponder why his popularity has plunged from 92% at the end of 2004 to 42 per cent in July this year, and if an opinion poll is conducted now, he will be struggling to keep his head above water to be above the dismal 25% approval rating.

[Speech (3) at the Sabah DAP forum “Malaysia – Towards A New Era” at Kian Kok Middle School Hall, Kota Kinabalu on Tuesday, 16th September 2008]

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109 Replies to “Zaid’s resignation “last nail in the coffin” of Abdullah’s repeat of reform pledges after March 8 “political tsunami””

  1. Many problems, if not all, will be solved when Pakatan Rakyat takes over the government. Abdullah is overstaying by one day now. He and Najix are announcing something in PutraJaya now at this time? I am quite certain it is not about handing over the power. Pakatan Rakyat should act soonest because you would never anticipate such thick skin people to do it voluntarily.

  2. I trust BN will still use the ISA for keeping their own ass shining.
    ISA shlud be use on those terrorist and person who will distrupt the safety and shouldn’t use on people who want to make Malaysia Better.

    GO pakatan rakyat!!!

    Zaid I SALUTE YOU!

  3. …….the Abdullah administration has finally given up the ghost about its pretensions of being a reformist government.
    ====================================================

    Abdullah’s recent claim that he stays on not for pleasure but to complete reform is all lies. Obviously his staying on is to fulfill his personal agenda.

  4. YB Lim Lit Siang,

    MCA has issued a statement opposing the ISA detentions and called for the ISA to be reviewed. Please challenge MCA to bring it up in Parliament when it reconvenes. Or are they making plaintive noises for the sake of show while remaining mere rubber stamps for Umno?

  5. Whom ever dignity people have left and jump off the sinking ship for safety

    To PR,

    Please fasten the takeover process, couldn’t stand it day by day. The way the gomen trying to make every Malaysian look stupid or think that we are stupid or want us to be stupid or they themselves couldn’t figure out the level of stupidity they are playing now

    On a lighter note..anyone want my bumiputra status..it is not for sale but as a token..hmmm, might as well offer it to the next Bangla I meet… Still undecide. Also preparation for going abroad or when next PR came into power.

  6. Dollah has a weak mind.
    One moment want to do good.
    Next moment….just the opposite.
    He cannot make up his mind..because he is so engrossed to save his PM position….playing a double agent game with UMNO..yet so low class.no style,.,.,.no brain.
    Then he tried the most dangerous method….ISA!!
    Imagine…a self proclaim devoted Muslim..a man of GOD..behave so ungodly…exposing…what a hypocrite he is.
    But Anwar seems to still have faith in Dollah….doing the right ..at the last days of UMNO downfall…offering him respect ..to see Dollah ….approve.. transfer of power…peacefully.
    Lets see…Dollah is no more the PM…just a figure head.
    And UMNO is an open party..for everyone to sling it out…who will be the boss of the future…managing the monkies and donkies in the jungle.
    They are still in dreamland…thinking how powerful they are.

  7. I fully agree. The Badawi administration is finished. BUT what will take over UMNO/BN? No combination is palatable but a Muhiyiddin-Razaleigh-Dr. M alliance would be disastrous.

    It is imperative for PR to take over now. It is literally for the immediate and future security of this country i.e. clear and present danger….

  8. Sir, whilst this political saga is ongoing, has anyone stopped to think about what and how the country is going to do to counter the soon-to-be gigantic wave of economic disaster that the US financial system has unleashed! Is the country suitably prepared for this onslaught? Fighting politics is one thing but fighting for everyone’s livelihood is certainly more important at this juncture, wouldn’t you agree?

  9. THIS MESSAGE IS INTENDED FOR MCA AND GERAKAN.

    Dr Chua Soi Lek today announced that he will be contesting the post of deputy president in the party elections on Oct 18.

    Dr Chua, Don’t waste time fighthing for top post in a irrelevant, Outdated Party. So what if you get what you want? What can MCA do even if the entire Party changes. Same goes to Gerakan.
    The best you all would ever do, speak more politely, beg with more vigor, Your ultimate aim is not to become a modern updated electronic DOG. Your master will forever be your master. Get that into your blinking cow intelligent – if any left.

    Your stubborn and inaction to support Goment change simply tells you Everything is still OK, I#A is good for your children? If you can have some hope or forgiving your master for all the short comings,WHY can’t you give the same token to DSAI and PKR?

    Remember this, You can judge what quality tree it is simply by tasting from its fruits.

    MCA, GERAKAN has failed, nothing to show all thuis decades, what makes you so sure, its gonna change, forget about being improved.

    1.IF MCA and GERAKAN is scare of loosing current privilege, it means you are extremely “selfish” not thinking about others who are less fortunate than you.

    2. You all need new platform, foundation to built new ideas and vision for New Nation. One cannot expect new quality fruits bearing from OLD poor quality tree.

    “IF YOU WANT NEW LAND, YOU HAVE MUST HAVE GUTS TO LOOSE SIGHT OF CURRENT SHORES!!”

    TAKE A CHANCE! JOIN PKR NOW!!!! Do not regret and do not lead our new generation of Chinese into another decades of doggy life.We will held each one of you responsible.

    DO IT NOW BEFORE ITS TOO LATE!!!

  10. Badawi is the only important person in BeEnd and UMNo. He is the only awakened person in the governm, that’s why he knows lots of what needs to be done. Furthermore, he still insist that the rakyst still need him, as much as he loves sleeping. He is a great leader, that’s why Maharhir had picked him, better than Mahathir. Wouldn’t you think the Mahathir was not a good PM??

  11. Steven Says:

    Today at 14: 28.16 (54 seconds ago)
    Sir, whilst this political saga is ongoing, has anyone stopped to think about what and how the country is going to do to counter the soon-to-be gigantic wave of economic disaster that the US financial system has unleashed! Is the country suitably prepared for this onslaught? Fighting politics is one thing but fighting for everyone’s livelihood is certainly more important at this juncture, wouldn’t you agree?

    ………………………………………………………………………………

    Oh but I thought the current administration said that Malaysia will not be affected by the economic disaster! Haha

    Perhaps the PM must have mistaken Lehman Brothers for Lever Brothers:)

    P/s: In case Ahmad Ismail is reading, Lehman Brothers are Jewish!

  12. Guys, don’t laugh first. Quick DSAI and PKR have to move quick!
    Traces of papers may go missing. I smell burning somewhere, in all departments. Simple explanation: Who?me? I don’t know. I wasn’t in charged then. Just got here? Its gonna be one hella a mess.
    Pls DSAI, wait not a sec later. DO IT NOW!!!
    WE WANT CHANGE
    NOT
    BODOWI NAJIB AND GANG SWAPING PORTFOLIOS.

  13. Najib is Finance Minister. When the US financial crisis hit us harder (it is already quite hard now) then Abdullah can push the blame to Najib’s incompetence.

    BUT I AM WARY OF ABDULLAH TAKING OVER DEFENCE!!! IS HE GOING TO USE THE ARMY TO STAY IN POWER?

  14. Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek wrote in his blog –

    The recent arrests of three individuals, under the Internal Security Act (ISA) have been roundly condemned by politicians and the people alike.

    The widespread dissatisfaction with the arrests, especially with what happened to Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, shows the time is right now for the ISA to be reviewed.

    I am glad that at last some leaders in my party, the MCA, and also from other Barisan Nasional (BN) parties have come out strongly against the ISA.

    The detention of individuals without trial is fundamentally unjust. In Malaysia we have other laws, including many other security legislations, to deal with issues which are sensitive.

    The issue of the ISA does not just affect one race. It affects all Malaysians. Many of us here have, of course, criticised the United States for detaining suspected terrorists without trial at the Guantanamo military base.

    I am not suggesting that the police in Malaysia have acted in the same manner as what goes on in the US. But the principle remains the same, that detention without trial is unjust. The police are given far too much discretionary powers under the ISA.

    And while I believe right-thinking individuals are a majority within the police, the ISA is still subject to abuse. Politically, this is also a chance for the BN government to regain some initiative in competing for the support of Malaysians.

    The opposition parties have for years been using the repeal of the ISA as a rallying cry. Perhaps it is time for us in BN to seize the initiative once and for all and review the ISA. This will show the people that we have a government which listens to them.

    The ISA can be replaced with some other legislation which offers protection against abuse and which allows judicial review.

    I would also like to take this opportunity to call on the police to immediately release Seputed MP Teresa Kok and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin. Justice is a bipartisan issue. It does not matter if Teresa is from the DAP and if Raja Petra is a fierce critic of the BN government.

    We as Malaysians are mature enough to debate issues in a mature manner. The Malaysia we all aspire to is one which is mature, open and progressive. After 51 years of independence, let us move forward not backwards.

    *************************************************

    You called for the immediate release of RPK and Teresa. Your calls have fallen on deaf years, obviously and for the obvious reason that you are irrelevant. And after that you announce you will be standing for the MCA deputy president’s post. You are still clinging on to an irrelevant party. Nothing has changed – cakap shiok saja. That’s about all you MCA can do – you can bark a little if the Master allows. To be fair, once upon a time you could get some low-cost houses for some of your members. At that time, many were enticed and encouraged to join the MCA because of a chance or hope of getting a low-cost house. Apart from barking with consent and acting as runners and postmen to get some small favours done for the Chinese (more often than not for a fee, not free), I cannot see how MCA have contributed to the welfare of the Chinese community which they claim to represent.

    Datuk Dr Chua, you are getting old but still a man of influence at least in MCA, Johor. Take a stand for the well-being of the country for a change e.g. ask your young son and some other good MCA members to cross over to the PR. There is a lot more future over there than to remain in the MCA which is sinking together with the Titanic.

  15. # chinymin Says:
    Today at 15: 17.10 (2 minutes ago)

    AAB is moving now in taking over the defence. What do you think he gonna do next?
    ==================================================

    DSAI must move fast to form the federal government before Abdullah takes over as Defence Minister. The longer DSAI waits, the more obstacles UMNO throws on his path.

  16. Men of principles do not belong in BN. ZI is probably the only Minister in M’sia history to quit whilst a full Minister because of his ideals. That he choose to object to the imposition of ISA on civilians speak volumes about the wrongdoings and lack of understanding by the government about the law as enshrined in the Constitution.

    What is happening in M’sia now is simply unbelievable and I think it gets worst by the day. To all the Ministers in the cabinet…if you have any principles, please resign now even if you do not join PR, just resign. Ask yourself if what you are doing or not doing is right for the country. After all, that is what you all pledged when you took the oath.

  17. Take it in a positive light – Badawi probably thinks that C4-man is a public liability and should be disconnected from the military since C4 is likely to engage the military against the rakyat if C4 is pushed further in the corner. Badawi is probably getting the ground work done for an easier take-over by or transition to Anwar.

    On the other hand, Badawi may be thinking that if all else fails to stop Anwar and / or to protect his PMship, he will have the military at his disposal if he is Defence Minister.

    Najib may have been asked to eat the proverbial dead cat in view of an expected global financial crisis.

  18. EErrrggggg…

    Prepare for more of Demolition moves and news from Goment.
    Very soon, We will be in “Search and Rescue” Mode.
    After that it will be “Recovery” Mode’. Almost game over.

    DSAI PKR must moved quick. Its a lot less easier if we start
    taking over now before they MUTATE!!
    It will require more resources and cost more in arresting this new form of Virus!!!!

  19. How many “last nails in the coffin…” will DAP conjure up. As it stands today, BN are still in government and command a majority. They are getting their fingers out and beginning to hear the sound of the rakyat calling for change. Ministeries are considering a ‘Race Relations Act’ that will replace the ISA in matters seen detrimental to social stability, while Anwar continues to dream of taking over Putrajaya.

  20. lakshy Says:

    Today at 13: 58.26 (1 hour ago)
    YB,

    Get Zaid into DAP. DAP needs to become more multi racial for its own future and to mirror the aspirations of the people.

    ====

    agree, i vote with my hands and legs. 101% agreed as he is non racist and like his comment of defending Malaysian rather than his own race. This is close to DAP’s ideology.

  21. At last the Cabinet managed to produce one really sane Minister with first world mentality. sad to say,it is on ONE! A minister who is willing a spade, a spade.
    The rest of them ????? Mostly yes man even though they know that it is wrong!!!

  22. Lots of people expected 916 is the “thing” or “happening”. Well ! If thats happened at Sept 16, then i can say thats got a lot of Hu-ha & probably blood. DSAI is a bloody smart man, he is using 916 as a tolerant test on UMNO & sees how far those idiots can tolerate. Well ! I can say that DSAI used us (Malaysian) & other (DAP & PAS) as a testing tool. YES ! We have been used, its ok to feel being “used” & felt like an idiot ! Like i said, DSAI is a bloody smart man, he can get you guys & girls going Hu-Ha towards UMNO & cause lots of last minute & stupid mistake that UMNO could make.
    I expect more to come, i expect DSAI starts making patch up with the supporters without apologizing. Yes ! More mistake will come up from UMNO, i just sit here & wait for flowery wayang kulit to start & feel exciting (Best show on earth).
    Talking about the name list ! Guess what ? Its gonna be a surprising thing that you gonna laugh your guts out in the end of the day.
    The whole scenario will be like you guys & girls being raped by your dream guy or girl & feel good about it in the end. Got it ?
    And ! For your ultimate feel good information ! Yes ! DSAI will take over eventually, But When ? Its a gooood question & i guess even DSAI can’t give an answer for that.
    Someone bet with me for a good lunch , anyone ??????

  23. “Dr Chua, Don’t waste time fighthing for top post in a irrelevant, Outdated Party. So what if you get what you want? What can MCA do even if the entire Party changes. Same goes to Gerakan.” — just a moment

    It will be a good show to watch. Especially if Chua manages to “pay back” to OKC for his video scandal.

  24. Anyone knows when Parliament next convene? Is this going to be early October after Ramadhan ends? Any exact date?

    If I was DSAI, presumably the best time to go to the Agong would be a few days before Parliament convenes and not too early. Why?

    Because this means keeping the names of the crossing MPs a secret for as long as possible.

    After the meeting with the Agong, the Agong must want to see the list of names. He may then want the PM’s view as well. The PM can be expected to object and will show his own list of names as well. Which means the only way the Agong is going to resolve this is through a vote in Parliament.

    This means that giving a list too early to the Agong would allow BN/UMNO to take counter-measures, once the names are confirmed cross-overs.

    So, wouldn’t it make sense for DSAI to keep the names close to his chest for as long as possible, to minimize that from happening?

    So, anyone knows when Parliament next convene?

  25. Even MCA requests as a component party of BN, are ignored by UMNO, what is the use of a few MCA leaders, voicing their call for the review of ISA.
    This call by the few is just to strengthen their positions in the coming MCA GE…all doing it with self-interest. ISA is not new, it has been abused many times before by BN, MCA was also a contributor,
    why play dumb now?

  26. Abdullah, and UMNO, Go to hell la… Misuse of Power! Everything also ISA. People fight for their right and changes and kena Caught but those ppl misused power, free! I think Abdullah and his gang should be in the Jail la. See even the US also summon the current Malaysia government on this “ISA”. See news;
    http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/9/14/nation/2026579&sec=nation
    http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/9/14/nation/20080914132720&sec=nation

    Where is the Law?
    For those who fight for changes, Zaid I salute you. Come to join us in DAP. “Forget he past and the new one will come”!
    “Perlembagaan” have to be changed!

  27. The DAP is a multi racial party and fights for all Malaysians. It does not differentiate by race. The same PKR and PAS. I hope ZI will decide to join one of these parties. It can be seen he is a true Malaysian who cares for all races and not ‘race and religion’ retoric.it will be a shame for all of us if he gets on his horse and rides out into the sunset after this eposide in the UMNO govt.
    To you MCA Gerakan PBS and other parties think not of what you as individuals stand to gain but what the people, who you say you represent will gain. Think …….Think…..lah

  28. Hi Uncle Lim & PR Leaders & my Malaysians friends,

    DSAI has been oppressed and humiliated for 10 years and he is responsible and humble enough to ensure a smooth transition while being “laugh” and “jeer” at by arrogant leaders of the BARISAN NASIONAL since the last 24 hours.

    While the supportors and getting anxious by every second including myself. The faith of PAKATAN RAKYAT supporters and the people has remain strong in PKR, DAP & PAS over forming a new government. Despite the technicalities of a proper power transition, I guess PR leaders must work swiftly and wisely in a final “checkmate”!

    Time is neither on BN nor PR sides really, in a game of proper chess, each move is bound by a time frame.

    I have faith that PR will form the next government but some faiths among the rakyat are shaking Uncle Lim.

    Swift and wise actions must be taken immediately to take over the government (or the list of MPs made public) in the next 24 hours or we will see another round of “Political Hurricane- ISA” by BN Leaders against the PR Leaders including yourself.

    In the face of ignorant and arrogant, hope for a “graceful” government to step down is DIMINISHED!

    A last imminent wave of “Political Tsunami” is needed (especially after a few “warnings”) to wipe out a the “Sinking Titanic”.

    I trust that the time is very very near (in hours not days or weeks) to create the “Final Wave of Political Tsunami” (with the voice and hands of more than 116 Pakatan Rakyat MPs).

    Thats all I have to say for now.

  29. It will be a fight till the last whistle!!!

    Yes, we need to be resolved!! Stay on Course.
    I’m also anxious until I read this
    http://m.themalaysianinsider.com/articles.php?id=9141

    DSAI is doing everything he humanly can. Pls pray for him also.
    The other new challenges is Bodowi given warning about being DSAI’s threat to economy and security? Bodowi now holds new portfolio and God only knows who will be his first victim.

    Just pray… God Almighty, Great is he who stand for justice!

  30. YB,

    1. There’s more to what meets the eye in the swapping of finance portfolio for defence ministry portfolio.

    2. You have to address your mind to these questions because such swap midway in the midst of uncertain times of UMNO’s intra factional fight and external threat of dislodgment by Anwar 9/16 is not carried out for no reason! There may be deep strategic reasons for which we may never know. All we can do is to speculate.

    3. There are however two pertinant questions :

    (a) who is calling the shots and got a better deal out of the exchange;
    (b) the implications of the conclusion from 1.

    4. Regarding 1., (superficially) it looks as if No 2 got an important Finance Ministry which controls government contracts, ie. the gravy train…It would be a portfolio that the next PM in waiting would inherit. It could be an incentive for No. 2 to abide his time (lately he seems to waver) and abide to succession plan in 2010.

    5. So he is getting a better deal? Not really for two reasons : (a) he is not getting it for “free”; he has to give up Defence and the other side taking it over, has right to pore and scrutinise through every contract in that ministry; (b) Finance Ministry is crown jewel only in stable and good times of economic boom and prosperity. In opposite conditions, one gets blame for everything that goes wrong with the economy.

    6. The advantage of Defence Ministry? One controls, if one could, the armed forces, Airforce and Navy, in short the uniformed services or “arms in being”. If one also controls directly or indirectly the domestic police force through Home Ministry, it means all power (Domestic/Defence) literally from “barrel of the gun” is controlled by – and concentrated in – one man! In uncertain and politically unstable times, this is fantastic privilege of power because one can declare emergency and rule indefinitely if one’s political foes within within or outside prove a nuisance.

    7. I rest my case who has a better deal in respect tpo the question rised in 3 above.

    8. I am not so sure then that Zaid Ibrahim’s decision to resign as Law Minister is the “last nail in the coffin” in respect of reform pledges after the March 8 “political tsunami”. I suggest to you that it could be the swap!

  31. Mr Smith Says:
    Today at 16: 48.01 (4 minutes ago)

    Abdullah seems to be hinting that Anwar would/could be arrested under the ISA. He has described him a threat to the economy and security!!!
    =================================================

    Pak Lah: Anwar is a threat to the economy

    “He is a threat to our economy and maybe even our security. I will not indicate to you what I plan to do, but what I will do, will be in the interest of the country.”

    @@http://m.themalaysianinsider.com/articles.php?id=9149-pak-lah-anwar-is-a-threat-to-the-economy

  32. DEar Steven,

    Yes sir. Malaysians are worried about all this antics. But many seem to have a simple solution that I believe is rational and practical. How about Uncle Lim advises Anwar to respect the wishes of rakyat.

    What are the wishes of rakyat. They put DAP, PAS and PKR in states but they still want UMNO and its coalition in Federal level and 8 other states. How about Anwar accepting the verdict of so called “rakyat”.

    Now everybody knows his life ambition is to be PM whatever the cause. So, fight through the proper channel; that is election. And everybody knows how good he is in “buying” politicians. I mean that is his “forte”.

    All this uncertainty is due to unchecked ambition . Malay call it “nafsu”. May Allah in his infinite mercy blesses this poor soul and make him realize that becoming “running dog” of some “foreign power” is sign of “pathetic mind”.

  33. Najib is Finance Minister? Finish. The country is finished. How can ‘alibaba’ head our treasury? He is said to be the most corrupted UMNO leader in the history of our land. We read somewhere that his ancestors from Sulawasi were pirates? chased out of the country? If it is true, we are finished.

    Bodohwi new defence Minister? I agree with Mr Smith. He will use the Army. Possibility of country under emergency is becoming closer. We knew it was coming.

    As for Zaid, the other women from ex puteri has also very evil and wicked mouth. Azalina says Zaid does not have nationalism blood in him for the ‘bangsa dan negara’. How can this evil women insult others like that? Zaid is a miliion times more intelligent, smart, educated, honourable and principled than Azalina. UMNO women are insults to mankind.

    Azalina is a very corrupted women. People are saying, she used her University mate and her ex husband to fix the tourism DG Mirza recently because he was not chanelling funds to UMNO programs.

    previously, Noraini called Tan Sri Khalid ‘kurang ajar’. both this women are the kurang kurang ajar. Bodohwi is committing political suicide having these bitches in the cabinet.

  34. They have been doing their work in all sorts of direction its not easy, they can’t duplicate themselves but the teamwork for final moved are essential. We must have faith in our leaders. This cronies can bark at their loudest as they control the media…

    WOW!…
    jt84 Says:

    Today at 16: 53.34 (4 minutes ago)
    “The SAPP Supreme Council hereby declares that SAPP is no longer a member of the Barisan Nasional coalition of parties.”

    From: http://www.sapp.org.my (4.30pm)

  35. jt84 Says:

    Today at 16: 53.34 (7 minutes ago)
    “The SAPP Supreme Council hereby declares that SAPP is no longer a member of the Barisan Nasional coalition of parties.”

    From: http://www.sapp.org.my (4.30pm)
    ==========================================

    Thanks jt84. Kudos to SAPP. Standing ovation, you deserve.
    Congratulation!!! You all have new found freedom!!!!
    Dare to change!!!

    Another fine example for as truly great party. You shall suceed, no 2 ways about it. Breaking bondages are never easy. Congrats.

    See, MCA and Gerakan? In Just 2 days you see Zaid and now SAPP stand up for what they believed in. Shame Shame Shame on you.
    Still fighthing with your own kind for Survival within a hopeless party. Shame on You All MCA and Gerakan!!!!!!

  36. Malaysiakini Sep 17, 08 3:40pm reported:

    “During a press conference at Putrajaya this afternoon to announce a reshuffle of cabinet portfolios, the premier issued a warning that appear to indicate the possibility of an ISA arrest for the maverick politician. ‘He has become a threat to the economy and (national) security,” he said. This in itself provides sufficient grounds for the authorities to invoke the security law which provides detention without trial against Anwar. And when asked what action the government would take against him, Abdullah refused to reveal his cards, saying: “I will not indicate what plan I will take, what I do will be in the best interests of the people and the country.”

    Datuk Seri Anwar – you have just been warned (like the way Hindraf was). This is what I said in earlier thread – if you don’t move [fast enough] to prove and legitimise publicly the claims and numbers you have.

    If you can’t, it may be construed against you that you are just a trouble maker doing things inimical to the malaysian economy for which justification will be made to take action.

    This time even the army will not help you with the swap.

  37. Hi everyone,

    I have a gut feeling that something “MAJOR” is taking place in the “Parliament” right now.

    This “gut feeling” might have trigger PM Abdullah’s theory of Anwar being a economy and security THREAT!

    I guess is down to PARLIAMENT Vs. ABDULLAH/NAJIB…possible?

  38. I wrote in a comment yesterday that Jeffrey’s thesis that ‘Anwar’s failure to act quickly will provide Abdullah with an excuse to clamp down’ had to be taken seriously. Now it seems that his thesis has been confirmed.

  39. Najib got the cash , Abdullah got the gun now and what is he going to do with it? He said that Anwar is a threat both to the economy and security of the country.Read between the lines. Another round of crackdown is just round the corner. Unthinkable but please think again.

    SAPP out of BN. MCA ,MIC , Gerakan what say you?

  40. Frankly, I feel the question ought to be why Anwar has not been arrested under the ISA earlier.
    Forget whatever reforms Pak Lah has promised.
    That is history!!
    So, I hope if Anwar has a plan B to the 916 plan.
    If he has, he better be executing it on the run.
    Once he and other PR leaders become guests of the police under the ISA, all hopes of a change will vanished.

  41. WARNING!!! Today AAB has declared that Anwar is a threat to Nation and economic security. What does this mean? Threats to national security are usually neutralised by ISA arrest.

    PUTRAJAYA, Wed:
    Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said today that Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has now become a threat to the economy and national security.

    The Prime Minister said Anwar’s actions all this while had not only affected political stability but also economic stability.

    “As a result of his actions, certain fund managers had made reports that Malaysia was not a good investment destination because of political uncertainties,” he told a press conference at his office here. Asked on what action would be taken against him, Abdullah said the government would do what was needed.

    Abdullah said Anwar had spread lies about the economic situation in the country including that no foreign direct investment was coming in and that the nation was no longer competitive.

    The truth, Abdullah said, was that FDI was still flowing into the country and not only that, Malaysia was a preferred investment destination.
    Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is also the chairman on the Cabinet Committee on Investment, interjected and said the rate of investment this year might even be higher than last year.

    On the nation’s competitiveness, Abdullah said Malaysia’s ranking had improved from 23rd place to 19th place now.

    Abdullah said Anwar wanted to bankrupt the nation by exploiting the fears of the people and belittling the country abroad.

    Najib also said Anwar’s political games had adversely affected the nation’s economy.

  42. So true, YB Lim and the rest of PKR, I hope you are not just sitting and moderating this blog alone, ok?
    Pls say or do something man. Its getting too ‘Hot!’
    Pls let us know if any new development comes up?
    Keep us all inform plssssss.

  43. Hi everyone again!

    I have a very very strong feeling that all the 82 Pakatan Rakyat MPs +++ are convening in the Parliament now.

    If Anwar and PR Leaders cant go to Putrajaya, and “not good” to disturb the King, the next best option would be the Parliament!

    The Parliament is the “safest” place now in Malaysia! A lockdown or a crackdown of the Parliament would mean !!!!????….(cant imagine if this really happens) but even Parliament members are not safe in Parliament house…but thats the best option for Pakatan Rakyat now…

    Let us all pray.

  44. During the medieval war, “copper and gold” comes first, to be able to stand champion above all. AAB are not sleepzzzhead as he seems to be. After 5yrs farming and robbing the Nation now he takes over the ARMFORCES and left the emty bank for Najis.

    As i said before, Theres no criminal commits a crime aspect to be caught!… They won’t give out without a FIGHT! Lets all be ready for the worse!

    LET US ALL EMBRACE THE WORSE YET TO COME WE MUST GIVE FULL SUPPORTS TO OUR LEADERS FOR THE SAKE OF OUR FUTURE.

  45. As a lawyer by training, Zaid is sensible enough to hold fast to his principal. By invoking ISA to “protect” a journalist over a true report and against Terasa & Raja Petra in place of other appropriate laws, is to the right-thinking rakyat a move backed by political motives.

    Beyond the slightest doubt, Islam is one of the great religions of humanity. We all have great muslim friends, associates, and neighbors. While the readiness of muslims in drumming up their unity, might, and resolve against a sworn enemy is in someway admired by others, we as a peace-loving country should however constantly guard ourselves against making a mountain out of a molehill.

    Do the trio deserved to be dealt with in such a manner? Did they kill somebody or threaten peace & order, to the extent that the so-called racial harmony is at risk? No.

    Let’s take a look at what’s happening in certain parts of the world. In the name of protecting their ideology, suicide bombers blew themselves up in a wedding dinner, gathering, and what not, even when the intended victims were countrymen of the same faith but only belonging to different camps. This approach of retaliation has been repeated time and again for more than a thousand years. But it has always ended up in a vicious circle and there has not been any side every claiming final victory.

    Indeed, it is an opportune time for our politicians to transform themselves into statesmen for the good of all. If out of stupidity and arrogance they chose to turn peace into war, we might well be heading towards destruction as a human race.

  46. Dollah took over Defence from Najib today!
    It can mean….
    1.Najib was the one…doing those ISA arrests.
    2.Dollah will look into Anwar’s claims..and assure smooth transfer of power …peacefully.
    3.Dollah will arrest Anwar..and few others..then.. apply Emergency Rule.
    But Anwar said…Dollah is his friend.
    I hope he is right.
    Meanwhile…old sick devil Mahathir is still fanning and fanning ..uprising.

  47. The entrenched forces still in Anwar’s way
    ===============================

    Anwar’s aides go to great lengths to say that he has already met the King or is going to meet him to clear the way. But that is not enough; he has to find a tactful way to assure not just the King, but also the Rulers as an institution and the many royalists who populate Malay society, that the change is benign not malignant.

    Another entrenched institution that needs convincing is the army, and, by extension, the police force which sees him as an agitator who will potentially destabilise the status quo.

    @@http://m.themalaysianinsider.com/articles.php?id=9141

  48. Zaid deserves to earn the respect from the people, for his conscience and principle disagreeing the abusive use of the unconstitutional ISA (which according to definition, can be used to PROTECT the safety of an individual without prior notifying him or her). Bravo!

    To restore his credibility, it is vital for the PM to refresh his statement on how the IPCMC, judiciary and ACA reform framework will be carried out.

    Quoted PM in the press – “The Government will continue, it does not depend on any one particular person to the extent that it will fall or be weak”.

    Quoted the press – “he had not decided on who should replace Zaid but emphasised that the legal reforms the former minister was tasked with doing would continue as planned”.

    Good point, question is how and when?

    The PM appears to have his own interpretation on what other people have expressed:

    “What he has said, he does not mean it.”
    “He is exhausted, will ask him to take a 2-week leave.”

    only to hear from the individuals later, that they have meant what they said.

    Quoted today in the press – “He (Anwar) is a THREAT to our economy and maybe even our security. I will not indicate to you what I plan to do, but what I will do, will be in the interest of the country”.

    What does that mean? ISA underway?

  49. YB LIM KIT SIANG:

    PLEASE. WITH ALL THE TRICKS IN YOUR HAT, PLEASE DO NOT TOY WITH OUR HOPES.

    THERE IS ONLY TWO PATHS FOR PR NOW.

    1) UP THERE WITH THE RAKYAT GOVERNING THIS COUNTRY WITH PRIDE, AND BE RECORDED IN MALAYSIA’S HISTORY AS ONE OF OUR SAVIOUR.

    OR

    2) DOWN WITH SHAME FOR ETERNITY FOR LYING TO ALL MALAYSIANS.

    YOU CHOOSE.

  50. Badawi & Najib switch minister post so that Badawi can control the military if he loses the parliament.Najib stupid enough to think that there is still $$ with finance post.
    If there is, it would have been all cleaned up by Khairi lah!!

  51. Its getting …PUTRAJAYA: The Anti-Corruption Agency has opened a file to investigate claims by Barisan Nasional MPs that they are being offered money by Pakatan Rakyat to join them.

    This Bdowi ain’t kidding. Is gonna take anyform any way to get DSAI and PKR. I wonder why ACA did not do anything during P Puah Election where Money was handed to ppl. Its dangerous time now. Watch out fellows. Where the heck is everyone PKR?

  52. Too many simplistic arguments here. We have West Minster model of government, but the power has always been centralised in this country, started by none other than Mahathir. However, this is not the end of the story. To me it does not mean that if someone controls the army or the police or finance, he/she can stage a coup or declare emergency according to his/her own whim and fancy. Under normal circumstances, those who hold more important portfolios would have more power. However when the situation is out of ordinary as it is now, it is no longer just the people who hold those important portfolios that will decide the fate of this country. It is about us as a nation – can we or can we not accept coup or emergency just to sustain the power of incumbents. Would our army and police act blindly knowing the coup or emergency is completely unjustified. We know the power from the barrel of the gun. But I wish to think that we only have limited tradition in this kind of behaviour in this country.

  53. According to Tian Chua they are offering AAB 24 to 48 hrs to respond to meet Anwar before they take the next step.
    But AAB has has responded loud & clear – there was no mention of power transfer in the letter and Anwar is a LIAR! AAB doeen’t need your 24/48 stuff. In fact AAB has thrown a note that Anwar may be ISAed for being a economy & national threat!!!!
    What’s next?

  54. PKR HAS LAST OPTION, WE NEED PAS DEFEND THE STRONGHOLD… They would not dare to touch any PAS leader as they stands for Muslim people, BN was deploying fascism through mediums and trying to create unrest among the Nation. If PAS comes out Defend PK we have a very strong walls to stands agains this BN machineries. Where is PAS leaders so far, its not time to chill now.

  55. To Abdullah Ahmad Badawi,

    Please be informed that you are responsible for 27 million population of this country.

    If you are incapable to be the Prime Minister of this country, please be a fine gentleman and handover your seat to a better candidate. Najib Tun Razak is certainly out due to too many scandals that he is alleged involved which till to-date he fails to clarify to the rakyat.

    Please note that 27 million population of this nation will not want to waste our precious time and future being ruled by a rotten and corrupt government.

    You are not capable and responsible, period! Please step down voluntarily without shedding a single drop of blood!

    Bob

  56. 110% in agreement with you!

    In almost every page in Harakah, Nik Aziz, Hadi and PAS members are calling the ISA arrest a Gomen ploy to turn Muslims against non-Muslims….

    I wish my true Muslim brothers ( PAS ) the best in their effort to reveal this evil plot for all to see….

  57. With a major recession coming our way … here we have our leaders both side fighting like children.
    It would not matter who rules as a wage earner we are screwed.Petrol has gone down but prices are still going up.Politicians fight the small men suffer.

  58. I am disappointed that none of MCA and Gerakan’s MPs attended the anti-ISA parliamentary caucus to free Teresa Kok this afternoon.

    MCA and Gerakan are only good at talking and impressing people with their anti-ISA comments in the main stream media, but quick to shy away from taking real actions – presumably for fear of being punished by their “big brother” i.e. UMNO in BN.

    I am pleased that Zaid Ibrahim – the only BN MP – was at the caucus.

  59. MCA and Gerakan should put their money where their mouth is. Since they have publicly decried the detention of Teresa and their opposition to the abusive way in which ISA has been used time and again by BN to suppress what is legitimate public opinion and dissent, they should have joined the caucus to reinforce their support against what is a sickening and heinous piece of legislation.

    Now, obviously, MCA and Gerakan are again playing up to their UMNO masters. When these parties are so spineless and emasculated, the people suffers for their legitimate voices are not heard through their representatives. Let’s see the total demise of MCA at the next GE, just to proove the point once and for all. Let MCA be buried together with GERAKAN.

    What we see as an outstanding display of courage and integrity is the outspoken defiance of Senator Zaid. Syabas, Zaid. We are all so proud of you, knowing the personal sacrifices that you made to stay true to your conscience and professionalism. History will recognise your courage and uncompromising dedication to a transparent judiciary and the rule of law. It’s a huge damnation to those others who have prostituted principles and prudence for power and positions within the ruling coalition. You represent the Malaysian we all need and so sorely miss in our public life.

  60. Najib is now the Finance Minister. But how long more would BN last, and how many projects are awaiting approval? Of course one big project might equal million others.

    The country has bought enough submarines. Maybe exocet missiles are lacking. But contracts would take months, maybe longer that BN’s remaining term.

    PM AAB blamed the fact that his weak hold onto the government and hence cautious moods among investers are the fault of Anwar who now has enough MPs to take over the government. So, Anwar to AAB is a financial threat, and a national security threat for which ISA might be invoked. If AAB extends his argument to its logical conclusion, all candidates standing for election against BN are ISA target. And ISA is for BN’s political protection.

    It is most intriguing that on the eve of UMNO MT meeting tomorrow AAB decided to exchange porfolio with his deputy. The King ought to have been consulted for this to be effective. It can only be official when they are sworn in. Wonder if Anwar will become PM first before AAB is officially the Defence Minister.

  61. I thought all these while AAB has been saying that Anwar’s takeover is a MIRAGE! Now the mirage has materialized and he is so scared that he has to hold on to military power to exterminate his victim. How do you exterminate a MIRAGE????

  62. chaM LOR…..now our PM is a defence minister…finance minister no longer importance to him now…..when u become defence minister then only you can defence your SEAT from being disturbed or removed…what a jokes!

  63. how can a PM conveniently gave up his portfolio without asking the people, where does it says this can be done, anyone?

    perhaps he has a personal deal and sub contracted the counting money position to the other person.
    Better watch our epf money closely or else bye bye…this guy can hardly count…and that is so conveniently done with close ties with climb

    Sure or not we dont get bankrupt ,

  64. Not a bad deal. Swapping Zaid for Ezam and Nalla.

    Actually Zaid did a smart thing. Why stay on a sinking ship.

    And this swap. PM and DPM had a few meetings the last few days and after all that talk this is the result? Hmmmm! must have struck a tough deal somewhere.

  65. When Tun DM said ‘look east’, everyone in BN literally ‘looked’ only. Not necessarily ‘do’. The only BN member that ‘do’ is Datuk ZI. The rest are still looking.

    PM swap positions with DPM for Defence & Finance…it’s all about $$$ lah. Oil price coming down…no more $$$ to suck from Petronas. Next thing we know is that Cabinet approve purchase of more useless & rusty weapons the Russians don’t need anymore…USD 1 Million lock stock & barrel to crony company…crony company than sell to Defence Ministry at USD 500 Million. Then Defence Ministry will say it is a ‘good deal’ considering that it will cost over USD 1 Billion (if in good condition). On top of that, another free taxi ride to space.

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