PUTRAJAYA - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a stern warning that any attempt to challenge the principles of the Federal Constitution including efforts to topple the government through unlawful means goes against the law and will not be tolerated.
Speaking during the monthly assembly with staff of the Prime Minister’s Department, Anwar stressed that although the government remained open to criticism, he will not remain silent if the nation’s stability was under threat.
“Some are saying I should step down. I’ve heard claims that thousands will be joining the rally. The police briefed me and I said go ahead. It’s not that we want to block it,” he said.
He was referring to the “Turun Anwar” rally scheduled to take place in the capital this Saturday.
Anwar also slammed provocative remarks claiming that the government would be forced to change without going through a general election.
“When they say they want to force a change in government without waiting for the general election, that’s already strange.
“I said it’s fine. I told the Speaker, if there’s a motion of no confidence on the first day of the Dewan Rakyat sitting, I’ll be waiting,” he said.
Anwar said if the opposition truly has majority support, they were free to table a motion of no confidence as provided under the parliamentary democratic system.
“But they know they can’t. InsyaAllah we will continue to hold strong with two-thirds majority support. We’ll wait for the election.
“But they don’t want that. They want to bring down the government now. That already goes against the Constitution,” he said.
Anwar also described the chaos-driven narrative pushed by certain quarters as an attempt to spark political instability and fear among the people.
“Let me remind you, while the government is tolerant, we will stand firm when the Constitution is challenged. I hope we remain peaceful. Why the spite? What is really happening?,” he said.
He added that a small group was painting the picture that the country was no longer safe and that people were living in desperation.
“That’s the same chant being echoed, including at the stadium in Kedah recently,” he said.
Anwar said if anyone was unhappy with his performance as Prime Minister, they have every right to voice criticism and call for change through democratic means.
“Criticise me, no problem. If people say this Prime Minister doesn’t know how to run the country and should be replaced, I’ve got no issue.
“Plan for someone better to take over, I’m fine with that,” he said.
However, he reminded that any attempt to spark unrest would only harm the country’s stability.
“If things start off like this, stirring up chaos, no nation will be safe. All the good progress we’ve made will be erased if we can’t ensure political stability,” he said.
Earlier, police projected that the rally may see up to 15,000 participants, with 2,000 Royal Malaysia Police officers and personnel deployed to ensure the rally runs smoothly and to safeguard both participants and the public.