KUALA LUMPUR: DAP is not compelled to apologise over its past attacks against Umno but it will allay distrust between the two parties, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (pic).
The Barisan Nasional deputy chairman also said it would not be wrong if DAP chose not to apologise, adding that the party extended an apology to the Sarawak state government last year.
"It (the apology to Umno) can make us closer because we are partners in the unity government. So, this could remove suspicion and doubt with one another once and for all," he said.
Mohamad also took note of DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke's remarks on Friday (June 9), who said that it was time to move on from being political adversaries.
"Loke said there's no need (to apologise). So that depends on his judgement. But we don't want this issue to lead to cracks within the unity government," he added.
Mohamad also clarified his remarks on Thursday (June 8) night, where he welcomed Umno Youth Chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh's proposal to get DAP to apologise to Umno.
"I was told to comment on Umno Youth's request for DAP to apologise. I wasn't trying to pressure DAP to say sorry," said Mohamad.
On Thursday (June 8), Muhamad Akmal said Umno Youth would not retract its call for an apology from DAP over previous attacks against the party.
In response, Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said there was no need for DAP to apologise.
He said DAP already agreed to terms set by Umno when they were negotiating to set up the unity government.
