Pejuang won't join 'big tent' if led by Anwar, Muhyiddin, says Dr M

PETALING JAYA: Parti Pejuang Tanah Air (Pejuang) will not work under a grand opposition coalition with Pakatan Harapan if it is led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim or Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, says Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

The Pejuang chairman described the PKR president and Bersatu chairman as leaders with personal agendas and "tidak lurus" (dishonest).

However, when asked why he thought of the duo as such, Dr Mahathir's reply focused only on Anwar.

"Anwar does not have the support (to be prime minister), but he repeatedly claims (otherwise) because he wants to be prime minister.

"It never happened. He does not have (the requisite) support," the former prime minister was quoted as telling Utusan Malaysia.

Dr Mahathir said he was willing to consider the "big tent" idea, to unite all opposition parties during the next general election, because it was the only way to defeat Barisan Nasional.

“Yes, if it’s possible, there should be a ‘big tent’ as the country is going through so many problems. But we have to find someone who is unswerving.

"We have to find people who are ‘lurus’ (straight). We can't include those who participate in politics just for money. Sorry lah," he said.

Dr Mahathir said he would still be prime minister today if not for Anwar’s own push for the top post in 2020.