Most Read
Most Commented
mk-logo
News
'Opposition's mistake was preoccupation in seizing Putrajaya'
Published:  Jun 30, 2016 12:40 PM
Updated: 8:18 AM

In a series of tweets from the courtroom where his Official Secrets Act (OSA) case is being heard, PKR secretary-general Rafizi Ramli commented on the state of the fragmented opposition.

Among others, he said the opposition's mistake was its preoccupation with seizing federal power as soon as possible.

"The short-term goal created a bubble that when it burst, it's harder to inflate again," he added.

Agreeing with the need to unite the opposition, Rafizi however pointed out they had differences in principles.

Expressing hope that the differences would be ironed out soon, he said: "But any resolution that paves the way for one-on-one (straight fights with BN in elections) must be principled in nature, not convenience to win."

The Pandan lawmaker said cohesiveness, reducing internal clashes, and focusing on policies and solutions were all within Pakatan Harapan's control.

"One thing (it is) not in control: what PAS does," he added.

Rafizi also urged the people to keep fighting BN, and to always remind Harapan what it needs to improve on.

"Better (still), come and help (the opposition). Not haplessness that we accept BN," he said.

"If people before us took the easy way out of settling for BN because the opposition was weak, we wouldn't have the Malaysia that we have today.

"Before there was a strong opposition, there were long years of weak opposition. Most people didn't bother about the opposition then but a few soldiered on," he added.

On a personal note, Rafizi looked to the heavens for support.

"Ya Allah, give me the courage to change the things I can, the serenity to accept the things I can't and the wisdom to know the difference.

"Finally, let me put this: one day when you are old, can you answer this: what did I do to fight what was not right then? Could I do more?" he added.

Following BN's thumping victories in the recent Kuala Kangsar and Sungai Besar by-elections, the PKR leader came under fire for what his critics claimed were attempts to blame the voters.

The dismal performance of the opposition parties was also attributed to the infighting and three-cornered fights, which analysts said had left voters and supporters disappointed.

Rafizi is currently on trial for allegedly violating the OSA by disclosing classified documents related to 1MDB and LTAT during a press conference in April.

ADS