Opposition leaders: We need not join BN to be relevant
The opposition Barisan Alternative coalition vowed it would never accept Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's invitation to form a national unity government because it would mean compromising their political struggles and ideologies.
Opposition leaders also said they need not join the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition to "stand against foreign threats or contribute to the development of the country and its people" the reason used by Mahathir in extending the invitation.
According to them, there was nothing in BN that appeals to the opposition as the ruling government had been showing blatant disregard to democratic process and discourage civil liberties.
On Saturday, Mahathir invited all opposition parties to join BN stating that everyone should work together with the government which was facing threats from external enemies.
After opening the State BN convention in Balik Pulau, Penang, the premier told the media that the politicians should reduce their politicking and focus on developing Malaysia
Parti Islam Malaysia (PAS) secretary-general Nasharudin Mat Isa (photo, left) said that the opposition has been contributing to the nation's development through the proper democratic process and will continue doing so.
He said Mahathir's statement seemed to deny the contribution made by the opposition which play an important role as the "check and balance " to the ruling party.
"Just because we are in the opposition does not mean that we cannot contribute to the nation's development. Not only we provide the check and balance, we also protect the people from being shortchanged by the ruling party," he said when contacted today.
He added that the opposition also ensure that minority voices are heard which ensure equal treatment for all, regardless of race and religion.
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