PN will give time to Ahmad Zahid to finalise the negotiation process with other parties

by S BIRRUNTHA / pic MUHD AMIN NAHARUL

PAKATAN Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (picture) has expressed optimism about forming the government with Barisan Nasional (BN) after holding negotiations with seven representatives of BN leaders in Seri Pacific Hotel this morning.

He said his side was satisfied with the negotiations which discussed the need to create a unity government that is stable and inclusive.

“We have held several discussions especially with the BN representatives who have appointed seven people to negotiate with us on policy issues. 

“So far, I am satisfied because the discussion is more focused on the need to create a stable and inclusive government that takes care of the interests of all people and regions in this country. 

“We also put forward several priorities in government policy, especially in developing and driving more convincing economic growth,” he told the reporters in a press conference at Seri Pacific Hotel today.

However, Anwar said his party will give space to BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to finalise the negotiation process with other parties.

“BN is asking for some time to continue the consultation process with all the parties who have requested consultation with them,” he noted.

In the meantime, Anwar said PH has consistently named him as the prime minister (PM) candidate in the formation of a unity government which is expected to be formed in the near future.

He also added that following discussions between the PH leadership and BN, no name was mentioned as the PM.

“For now, yes (I am a PM candidate), they (BN) have not put another name in their discussion,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Anwar said the court case involving Umno members will continue even if both coalitions are to form the government.

Commenting on the matter, Anwar expressed that the judiciary should be independent and should not be interfered with.

“The court is a court. The judiciary should be independent so we will not interfere with the body’s process,” Anwar said while answering a reporter’s question about the status of the court case involving Umno members if PH forms a coalition government with BN.