KUALA LUMPUR: Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (pic) described as positive Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s response to national consensus on critical issues facing the nation.
Anwar said on Monday that this was the first positive response from a senior Umno leader to his call for a consensus between Barisan Nasional and Pakatan on such issues.
He said that PKR secretary-general Datuk Saifuddin Nasution would be responding to Dr Ahmad Zaid, who had stated that Umno and Barisan Nasional leaders should take up Anwar's call for a national consensus to address issues affecting religion and harmony in the country.
Dr Ahmad Zahid had described Anwar’s offer of ‘olive branch’ as a proactive move and should be considered.
Anwar dismissed talk that his call for consensus was an indication of a unity government.
"No, no relevance to unity government. I spelt out the issues. We need a consensus of fundamental issues that concern the nation; race, religion, corruption and economy," he told reporters at Kuala Lumpur High Court here.
When asked about a unity government, Saifuddin just laughed off the suggestion.
"I meet Zahid and Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal (Umno vice-presidents) all the time.
"They are all my friends and we remain friends until now. There's no problem," he said after attending Anwar's court case.
Related story:
Zahid: BN should be open to Anwar's call
