Nik Aziz wants Anwar to struggle further in politics

 

PAS spiritual leader Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat has urged opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim to stay on in politics. Sinar Harian quoted the Kelantan menteri besar as saying on his Facebook that the political field is also about teaching.

“The difference in the political field is that we strive to educate the people. In universities we teach the students. Hence, I am not supportive of Anwar’s intention to retire from politics and returning to teaching.

“Struggle further in the political world in order to continue in educating the people,” Nik Aziz was quoted as saying. The influential Kelantan menteri besar is a staunch supporter of Anwar.

Anwar was reported to have said that he will retire from politics and resume teaching if Pakatan Rakyat loses in the 13th general election. He had previously taught at Washington-based Georgetown University.

The daily also quoted several other leaders, including DAP Youth chief Anthony Loke (right), who also disagreed that Anwar should retire.

“His retirement plans will be longer as I am confident Anwar will win and become the next prime minister,” said Loke.

PAS vice-president Mahfuz Omar, meanwhile, was quoted by the daily as saying that he respected Anwar’s decision, and it shows he is a responsible person.

PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar was quoted as saying her father’s leadership is still needed and said his statement was mainly directed to fine-tune Pakatan Rakyat’s election machinery in winning the crucial general election.

“He has successfully unified the opposition parties into a viable coalition and we do not want to lose his leadership and experience,” she said.

Meanwhile, several BN leaders like Deputy Education Minister Puad Zarkashi were quoted as saying Anwar’s decision was a manifestation of Pakatan’s lack of confidence in not being able to compete with the ruling coalition in bringing development.

Another Umno supreme council member, Idris Haron, said if Anwar was serious about retiring he would have done so upon his release from prison in 2004.

“This is just a political statement as it is not easy for Anwar to retire from politics. I am certain the people will identify this is Anwar’s cheap trick in making this announcement to gain support,” he said.