No plot to oust MB, says Anwar

By Rahmah Ghazali - Free Malaysia Today

KUALA LUMPUR: Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim has finally settled the issue of some PKR MPs who allegedly teamed up to oust Selangor Menteri Besar Khalid Ibrahim, saying that there was never such a plot.
Speaking to reporters in Parliament today, the PKR de facto leader claimed that he had never heard of the MPs – said to number about 15 - making such a demand as reported in the media recently.

“I have met the MPs many times. I have also gone through (the media reports) but seriously, there was no discussion at all among the MPs to make such a demand (remove the menteri besar),” he said.

According to him, he would have known if such a plot existed. But he said that the matter was never raised.

“I was never aware of it. As far as I’m concerned, any demand to oust the menteri besar has to go through me as I have a little influence in the party.

“But this was never the issue. The only issue brought up was how the Selangor government could implement effective programmes for the people,” he said.

PKR came under the glare of publicity last week when vice-president and Anwar’s protégé Azmin Ali tendered his resignation as a board member of the Selangor State Corporation Development (PKNS), which is helmed by Khalid.

It was rumoured that Azmin acted to express his displeasure over the way Khalid is running the state. Many members have also claimed that the menteri besar did not consult party leaders when it came to policy decision-making.

Another rumour soon surfaced claiming that the 15 PKR MPs have teamed up with Azmin to plot the downfall of Khalid. But Azmin has denied it.

Khalid needs to 'share the burden'

Anwar also rubbished claims that Khalid was replaced following criticism that the menteri besar has been unable to woo grassroots support despite having led the state for more than two years.

According to him, it was Khalid who asked for the change because he has a lot of work to do to meet the expectations of the people.

“He said his burden is heavy as he has to take care of both the state and party in Selangor. He was afraid he could not fulfil the expectations of the people.

“That was why he asked that his party position be given to someone else,” said Anwar.

Anwar, who initially disagreed with Khalid's request, said he finally accepted it when Khalid repeatedly informed him that he could not be expected to do both jobs.

“He needs to share the burden and he needs someone to tackle the political programmes.

“I think he is keen on making sure he runs the state,” he said.

Anwar also said PKR does not emulate Umno-style administration.

“It used to be like Umno where the menteri besar usually heads the party in the state, but not necessarily now,” he said.