Zaid: I've finally decided which party to join
Former Umno man Zaid Ibrahim, after toying with the opposition parties for some months, has finally decided on his political future.
But for now he is keeping mum on the political party of his choice.
Former Umno man Zaid Ibrahim, after toying with the opposition parties for some months, has finally decided on his political future.
But for now he is keeping mum on the political party of his choice.
"Yes, I am still actively involved in politics. I have decided on the party (which I will join) and will announce it later," he told reporters today at the launch of his second book ‘Saya Pun Melayu'.
When pressed on the choice of his party, the former law minister was adamant in not divulging further details.
Also present at the book launch in a popular golf club in the city was PKR leader Anwar Ibrahim and Kelantan Menteri Besar Niz Aziz Nik Mat.
Zaid had resigned as de facto law minister last September in protest over the government's failure to implement much-promised reforms.
He was also upset over the use of the Internal Security Act against DAP parliamentarian Teresa Kok, Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin.
Zaid was subsequently sacked from Umno for attending events organised by opposition parties.
While he has not openly declared his support for any of three key opposition parties - PKR, PAS and DAP - he had nevertheless been seen attending many of their functions.
Book should be encouraged
At the book launch today, Zaid received high accolades from Anwar on his principled stand on various issues.
"Zaid has consistently criticised Dr Mahathir (Mohamad) and (Umno-owned daily) Utusan Malaysia . We are the on the same platform on that," said Anwar during the book launch.
On the book itself, the opposition leader said that there were several interesting aspects in 'Saya Pun Melayu' and "the writing of this genre of books should be encouraged".
"For example, the issue of secularism was touched by Zaid with a sense of paradigm shift," he added.
"Zaid has been chided whenever he spoke against the New Economic Policy. His detractors are the type of Malays who are ignorant and shallow in thoughts.
"He has also touched on political morality and leadership," said Anwar.
The PKR leader also defended Zaid's criticisms of Utusan for its reporting.
"I hope Umno delegates would read this book," said Anwar, referring to the Umno annual meet which is to kick off tomorrow.
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