Anwar: Toe the line or get out of PKR

PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim has issued a stern warning to members who are more interested in putting self-interest over that of the party.

He said those who cannot subscribe to the party's principles and the reform agenda should “leave PKR”.

“Pakatan Rakyat is now stronger with the support from PAS and DAP...we will move on without errant members,” he told reporters at the party headquarters today after meeting with Pakatan leaders to discuss the coalition's 'report card' since March 2008.

Commenting on the defection of three members of parliament from PKR, as well as the sacking of Bandar Bahru Kulim MP Zulkifli Noordin, Anwar (left) said the party will not entertain members who are merely looking for projects or posts.

He said those who want to remain in the party should be committed to the reform agenda.

“PKR is willing to accept any valid criticism, but if the issue is to get projects or posts, then (those concerned) can join the Umno-led coalition,” he added.

PKR now has 500,000 registered members.

Anwar addressed complaints by the defectors that the PKR leadership had not consulted grassroots leaders before taking a liberal stand on the use of 'Allah' by non-Muslims.

“PKR will not ... dishonour its commitment to the other Pakatan parties - PAS and DAP - which are willing to work with us, by allowing some negative elements in the party to frustrate them,” he said.

He said the party will prove again that ties in the Pakatan coalition cannot be broken by the agenda of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

'Does EC know procedures?'

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng (below), asked if there was any development in the state's bid to hold local government elections, responded with sarcasm.

He referred to the Election Commission's (EC) denial that it had received Lim's letter, sent on March 4.

“I sent the letter again today. If they have not received the letter now, what has happened to the fax?” he asked

“I don't see a connection. Why does the EC have a problem responding to the matter when Article 113(4) of the federal constitution allows (federal or state laws to be used by) the state government to call for a local government election?”

“The EC may not be aware of the procedures involved in holding local council elections, but we are ready to go through the details with it.”

Local polls were suspended following the declaration of emergency on Sept 3, 1964, which remains in force.

news courtesy of Malaysiakini