GEORGE TOWN: Perikatan Nasional does not have a credible leader who can be presented as a candidate for the Prime Minister post, said Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The Amanah vice president said this casts a doubt on the opposition coalition’s claim that it can offer better leadership for the country.
“The reality is that the opposition has failed to present even a single candidate who is capable of taking on the responsibilities of the national leadership.
“They do not have a viable candidate, nor do they have a leadership lineup that the people can place their trust in," he said during his speech at the Penang-level convention here held at Lexis Suites Penang in Bayan Lepas on Saturday (Sept 13).
Amanah is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, having been formed in 2015.
Dzulkefly, who is also the Health Minister, said Amanah, despite once being dismissed as a splinter party, has demonstrated resilience by surviving and thriving through political challenges over the past decade.
"Many political observers previously predicted that Amanah would not last beyond one General Election.
"The party has remained relevant and is now part of the current unity government.
"One of Amanah’s biggest challenges has been dealing with narrow political narratives that claim only one group represents the true teachings of Islam. This approach poses a serious threat to national unity.
"Amanah promotes a more inclusive interpretation of Islam, one that embraces Malaysia’s multi-cultural, multi-religious, and multiracial society. We uphold the dignity of all people without discrimination," he said.
He said the party opposes politics that exploit religion and race as a means to gain power.
On the political front in Penang, Dzulkefly expressed confidence that the Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional alliance will continue to lead the state effectively and capture more seats in the upcoming General Election (GE16).
Earlier, Penang Amanah chairman Muhammad Faiz Fadzil said he hoped Amanah would be able to contest in more seats in Penang during the coming general elections.
Muhammad Faiz said the party has grown stronger over the years, having successfully held annual meetings in all 13 divisions in the state.
“Amanah has made significant contributions in championing Islam as a religion of compassion and guidance for all, staying true to its core principles.
“We reject the use of race and religion as political tools here.
"The request for more seats should not be seen as sidelining our Amanah’s partners, but a family spirit of negotiation between Amanah, PKR, DAP, and Umno to build a stronger team for the next elections," he said.
Also present during the convention was Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, among others.
