Anwar vows action against Sabah defectors, backs Shafie as CM

PKR president Anwar Ibrahim vowed action against any defectors from his party in Sabah once the matter is verified.

Anwar (photo, above) said he is following developments in Sabah and reaffirmed PKR and Pakatan Harapan’s support for the Warisan-led government and Chief Minister Mohd Shafie Apdal.

“If (the defection) is verified tomorrow, we will take action. I will not allow it,” he told reporters in Malacca today, according to a voice recording.

Earlier today, Sungai Sibuga assemblyperson Musa Aman claimed to have sufficient support from Sabah assemblypersons to form a new government.

He declined to disclose his numbers, but Sin Chew Daily reported that 32 assemblypersons, including Musa, were present at his announcement.

To form a simple majority, he would need the support of at least 33 out of 65 assemblypersons in the state, including those nominated by the ruling party.

Among those sighted at Musa’s press conference, however, was PKR’s Inanam assemblyperson Kenny Chua.

Meanwhile, to a question whether snap elections should be held, Anwar replied that the Covid-19 pandemic and the restrictions imposed to curb its spread would pose a problem.

Asked whether the developments in Sabah would affect Pakatan Harapan, Anwar replied in the negative.

“Sometimes people hold the misconception that the political games between the elites represent the people’s aspirations. That is not necessarily the case,” he said.

Separately, The Star reported that Warisan deputy president Darell Leiking has urged for a state election to be held.

“We are shocked by what has happened. We think a state election should be called, and we return it to the rakyat to decide.

“This is something we are against, they have betrayed the mandate, which is for a full term. So, the best thing is let’s go for election,” he was quoted as saying.

Shafie is expected to hold a press conference to address Musa's announcement at 10am tomorrow.

Related reports:

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