GE14 | The rallies featuring Pakatan Harapan chairperson Dr Mahathir Mohamad are telling, according to former minister Rais Yatim.

 

“I can see a sea change in the attitude of the voters,” he told Malaysiakini, in reference to the large turnouts at these rallies.

Emphasising that he believes in fair and just laws, the Umno veteran also stressed that corrupt and tainted leaders should not be at the nation's helm.

“I am also against arrogant small Napoleans,” he added.

Rais, like another Umno veteran and former minister Rafidah Aziz, has drawn flak from the current leadership due to his critical views.

However, Rafidah has gone a step further by urging voters to end BN's rule and hand the reins to Harapan.

She is also expected to share the stage with Mahathir at a ceramah in Malacca tonight.

Meanwhile, Rais noted that his observations have led to certain Umno bigwigs warning him that action would be taken.

“They keep on saying there is nothing wrong with 1MDB and the billions that went missing. Umno prefects don't have to cry wolf at every turn and ask when RaisYatim will be whipped out.

“I am grateful to the powers that be, but politics is about the people's interests. If you don't stand by accountability, high standards and culture, then others would take your place,” he added.

Rais also shared his views on the Election Commission, which has come under fire from the opposition and electoral watchdogs with regard to the electoral roll, redelineation of boundaries and the disqualification of candidates.

“The EC needs to change its apron of service - this perception of being high-handed on its part doesn't sink in well with the rakyat,” he said.