Anwar: No deals with those facing trials, no vendettas either

KUALA LUMPUR: Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says there will be no “personal vendetta” against any individuals if and when he forms the government.

He also denied cutting any deals with any MPs who are currently facing criminal charges to get the numbers needed to form this new government.

"No. 1, this is an inclusive government. No political personal vendetta against anyone.

"I have already made it abundantly clear that we are committed to institutional reforms, judicial independence and to the rule of law.

“There is no question about cutting deals with individuals as alleged by certain quarters.

"It is completely irrelevant and irresponsible " he told a press conference here Tuesday (Oct 13), a few hours after he had presented a list of MPs to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara.

Pressed on whether those facing criminal charges will continue to face their charges, Anwar said, “What I assured them is that there would be no political vendetta, but they must accept due process and the rule of law, an independent judiciary and not malicious prosecution as alleged”.

Earlier, Anwar said he has the support of more than 120 MPs to in his bid to become prime minister.

“It’s more than 120. But because the Yang di-Pertuan Agong will summon the heads of parties, therefore it is rational for us to be patient and give the King space to decide, ” he said.

Anwar also urged all quarters to give space to the King to carry out his constitutional duties as well as his discretion over the matter, adding that the King will summon party leaders over the next few days.

Anwar had had an audience with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, at Istana Negara earlier Tuesday.

The Perikatan Nasional government currently rules on a two-seat majority with 113 out of the 222 MPs.

Pakatan Harapan Plus, on the other hand, has 108 MPs, following the death of Parti Warisan Sabah Batu Sapi MP Datuk Liew Vui Keong, the former law minister.