Furious over possibility of losing titles

Two Pakatan leaders holding titles bestowed by Perak Sultan Azlan Shah are furious that a BN assemblyman has proposed that the sultan withdraw them.

Former menteri besar Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin (left) was awarded the title of ‘datuk seri' after he was appointed as the state chief by the Sultan.

DAP state chief Ngeh Koo Ham was awarded a ‘datukship' title when he was named the senior executive councillor during Pakatan's ten month-rule of the silver state.

Now both these awards given to Nizar and Ngeh are in possible jeopardy as BN Rungkup assemblyperson Shaarani Mohamad wants BN to recommend to the Sultan to withdraw both the awards.

Shaarani made this proposal at the assembly sitting yesterday after there was a ruckus by Pakatan in the August House.

However Menteri Besar Zambry Abdul Kadir had shot down the idea saying that it is the right of the sultan and BN will not interfere in the matter.

Offensive mode

Both Pakatan leaders then went on the offensive and called on Umno not to involve the palace in their political game to tarnish the opposition in the eyes of the royalty.

"Shaarani is bringing disrespect to the Sultan by interfering in his affairs" charged Nizar.

Ngeh (right) said "do not try to cover up your political weakness by hiding behind the palace. Instead BN should measure up to the political expectations of the public in discharging their social responsibilities in a positive manner."

Ngeh created history in his party by being the first DAP politician to be awarded the datukship as DAP, considered an opposition party, could hardly dream of getting such a title.

However, the political tsunami in 2008 saw DAP was considered as a coalition partner of PAS and PKR in administrating the state and the state leaders granted due recognition by the palace.