BERA: The exchange of words between Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim over the alleged issue of early voting continues.
This time, the Prime Minister questioned if the Opposition leader who accused him of not resolving issues involving military projects purposely did not take note of the government’s response.
“The matter has been addressed numerous times by the government.
“I’m not sure if he (Anwar) did not read the statements made or purposely does not want to know the response,” he said after launching a carnival for youths on Saturday (Nov 12).
Ismail Sabri pointed out the Defence Ministry had explained the latest status of its delayed projects.
“On the issue of alleged misappropriation, such cases are being handled by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission. In fact, some cases have been charged in court.
“So again, I’m not sure if he understands the issue or he is pretending not to understand,” he said.
Anwar, who is Pakatan Harapan chairman, had said instead of asking for him to apologise, it is him (Ismail Sabri) who should do so.
“He (Ismail Sabri) is the one who must say sorry for incomplete and undelivered vessels, fighter planes and helicopters.
“The money is meant for the military but was absconded, so you (Ismail Sabri) should apologise,” he said.
On Friday, Anwar had alleged that military personnel in Bera had already cast their votes in GE15 and were paid to do so.
In response to this, Ismail Sabri said this was a lie and a malicious accusation against the Armed Forces, aimed to tarnish the image of the security forces.
The Prime Minister demanded that Anwar retract the accusation and apologise to the military personnel who were accused of being paid to vote.
On another matter, Ismail Sabri said when the next government is formed, those appointed as ministers and deputy ministers will be made to declare their assets.
“That is the regulation and they will be made to declare. For now, it is not necessary because the law does not require them to do so.
“We will follow the law and that is our assurance. Those who want candidates to make public their assets want to create an issue out of it,” he said.
Anti-graft activists have pushed election candidates to follow the example of their PKR counterparts and declare their assets.
Apart from boosting a candidate’s credibility and integrity, they say asset declaration is also crucial for public accountability.
