PUTRAJAYA, July 21 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today emphasised that he does not prevent any gathering or criticism of his leadership, including calls for his resignation.
However, he asserted that any attempt to change the government must adhere to democratic principles, either through a general election or a vote of no confidence in Parliament.
He challenged the opposition to bring a no-confidence motion in the Dewan Rakyat today if they have enough support to change the Madani government under his leadership.
"Some say Anwar must step down, to rally (to make me step down). The police gave me a report, and I said, ‘Don’t block the roads’. But when they said they would force the government to change, that sounds odd. They said they don’t want an election, and I said that’s fine.
“I told the (Dewan Rakyat) Speaker (Tan Sri Johari Abdul) to proceed if there’s a motion to be voted on today ... I’m waiting for a no-confidence motion. If they have the majority, go ahead. The Cabinet will resign. That’s how our system works,” he said during a monthly assembly with staff of the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) today.
Anwar also questioned the opposition’s ability to rally sufficient support to challenge his leadership, affirming that the Madani government continues to enjoy strong backing, with a commanding two-thirds majority in Parliament.
The prime minister said any effort to topple the government without majority support and outside the election period clearly contradicts the Federal Constitution.
"If there is a no-confidence motion, there must be enough votes. But they (opposition) know it can't be done. God willing, we will hold on strongly, with a two-thirds majority, and we will wait for the election, but they want to oust (Anwar) now. This violates the principles of the constitution and the law," he said.
He condemned efforts by certain quarters to propagate a narrative of chaos, describing it as a deliberate attempt to incite political instability and public anxiety.
“I remind you, while this government remains tolerant, we will act firmly if the principles of the Federal Constitution are challenged. I want our country to remain peaceful. Why the envy? What has happened?” he said.
He reaffirmed his openness to criticism, including claims that he is ineffective in managing the country or calls for his replacement. However, he strongly rejected any actions or narratives that violate the law and undermine the country’s political and economic stability.
— Bernama
