There were Barisan leaders who didn't stand during Ahmad Zahid's speech, me included, says Annuar Musa

PETALING JAYA: Despite a standing ovation calling for the 15th general election to be expedited, Umno's Ketereh MP Tan Sri Annuar Musa (pic) claims that there were some Barisan Nasional leaders who did not stand.

Annuar was referring to the standing ovation on Umno President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's speech at the Barisan 48th anniversary at World Trade Centre (WTC).

Annuar claimed the standing ovation was "instructed", and despite being orchestrated, some leaders were seen awkwardly standing in support when Ahmad Zahid addressed the crowd.

"The Barisan chairman asked the crowd when they wanted GE15 to be held. They (the crowd) were later told to stand.

"I saw many were stunned, and there were many who stood up spontaneously. Some are waiting to see if their friends are standing or not.

"I agree that GE15 should be expedited, but only once Barisan is truly prepared," added Annuar.

Annuar also made no secret of his displeasure towards Ahmad Zahid's call to expedite GE15, saying that he sat down, despite being told to stand.

"I don't have to stand just because others stood, or because I'm shy, timid, and so on," added Annuar.

Annuar reflected on his experience as a politician, saying he has seen many leaders facing defeats despite being confident of emerging victorious.

"Some who claimed that 'ready', said they are ready. But, work hasn't begun, funds aren't prepared, unorganised data, untrained election machines, and yet we are claiming we are ready.

"I believe the Prime Minister will return the mandate to the people, but not in haste. Instead, it should be when the people are confident and ready to return the mandate to Barisan."

Annuar then quoted a quote from Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu's Art of War.

"Know yourselves, know your enemies, one hundred battles, one hundred victories.”

In the Barisan Nasional 48th anniversary celebration at WTC on Wednesday (June 1), Ahmad Zahid had asked the crowd, comprising Umno, MCA, MIC and PBRS members, whether they wanted the general election to be held this year.

It was received with a resounding yes and applause from a crowd estimated to be at 4,000.

Ahmad Zahid also said he would talk to the Prime Minister regarding GE15, and Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob assured that he will not delay the polls when the time comes.