Anwar Q&A
Published: Apr 9, 2001 10:53 PM | Updated: Jan 29, 2008 10:21 AM
On the recent elections
The elections in an "illiberal democracy" is far from being free and fair. But despite the limitations and having to confront the Barisan Nasional's money, machinery and media, Barisan Alternatif managed to garner almost half of the total voters.
On Umno losing Malay support
In the elections, the Malays had rejected Dr. Mahathir Mohamad-Abdullah Badawi's leadership. Knowing his (Mahathir's) arrogance and intransigence, it is difficult to contemplate how he would make the adjustments to reflect Malays' anxieties. To him, the Malays are ungrateful.
On recent arrests of opposition activists
Clearly using repressive laws to stifle dissent and directed against opposition leaders.
On Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi
We had congratulated Abdullah for his appointment last year imploring him to be more decisive. Unfortunately, he has merely parroted Dr. Mahathir, is subdued by him (Mahathir) and Tun Daim (Zainuddin), and remains oblivious to the reports on corruption, but bold on repressive acts against dissidents and the opposition.
On Umno no-contest ruling
That there is not going to be a departure from the climate of fear being perpetrated by the Barisan Nasional regime, and possibly it is an indiscreet message to the Umno delegates to submit to his "advise" of no contest for the president and deputy or face the dire consequences!
On his influence within the Umno grassroots
I have absolutely no problems with the Umno grassroots. My problem is with Dr. Mahathir's megalomania; being surrounded by a coterie of corrupt sycophants and cronies.
On his wife and KeADILan leader Wan Azizah Wan Ismail
Azizah is competent to articulate the cause for reform, KeADILan's and BA's agenda. Given the present constraints due to my confinement, I can only render limited support.
On the reformasi movement
The strength of the reform movement is translated into the impressive showing of Barisan Alternatif. Our common agenda is reforms: repeal repressive laws, combat corruption, cronyism and nepotism.
On the future
I am committed to the reform agenda. And the support of Malaysians for democracy, the rule of law, and for a vibrant but humane economy is reassuring.
The elections in an "illiberal democracy" is far from being free and fair. But despite the limitations and having to confront the Barisan Nasional's money, machinery and media, Barisan Alternatif managed to garner almost half of the total voters.
On Umno losing Malay support
In the elections, the Malays had rejected Dr. Mahathir Mohamad-Abdullah Badawi's leadership. Knowing his (Mahathir's) arrogance and intransigence, it is difficult to contemplate how he would make the adjustments to reflect Malays' anxieties. To him, the Malays are ungrateful.
On recent arrests of opposition activists
Clearly using repressive laws to stifle dissent and directed against opposition leaders.
On Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi
We had congratulated Abdullah for his appointment last year imploring him to be more decisive. Unfortunately, he has merely parroted Dr. Mahathir, is subdued by him (Mahathir) and Tun Daim (Zainuddin), and remains oblivious to the reports on corruption, but bold on repressive acts against dissidents and the opposition.
On Umno no-contest ruling
That there is not going to be a departure from the climate of fear being perpetrated by the Barisan Nasional regime, and possibly it is an indiscreet message to the Umno delegates to submit to his "advise" of no contest for the president and deputy or face the dire consequences!
On his influence within the Umno grassroots
I have absolutely no problems with the Umno grassroots. My problem is with Dr. Mahathir's megalomania; being surrounded by a coterie of corrupt sycophants and cronies.
On his wife and KeADILan leader Wan Azizah Wan Ismail
Azizah is competent to articulate the cause for reform, KeADILan's and BA's agenda. Given the present constraints due to my confinement, I can only render limited support.
On the reformasi movement
The strength of the reform movement is translated into the impressive showing of Barisan Alternatif. Our common agenda is reforms: repeal repressive laws, combat corruption, cronyism and nepotism.
On the future
I am committed to the reform agenda. And the support of Malaysians for democracy, the rule of law, and for a vibrant but humane economy is reassuring.
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