Now Khalid’s turn to tell Azmin to quit as Selangor MB

(Malay Mail Online) – Selangor Menteri Besar Azmin Ali got a taste of his own medicine today, with the man he hounded out of office now telling him to step down for someone more deserving.

Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim accused his successor of engaging in rhetoric and “political charades” with his recent policy decisions, instead of putting in the hard work that is required to lead Malaysia’s wealthiest state,

“All of us, especially leaders, should know the difference between reckless courage and wisdom in making decisions,” the independent Port Klang assemblyman said in a statement.

“What’s the point of persistent bravery among warriors if the strategies and techniques used cause us to win the battle but lose the war?”

Since taking over from Khalid, Azmin has controversially undone projects started during the former’s administration, including cancelling the Kinrara-Damansara Expressway (Kidex) for failing to meet prerequisites.

Today, Khalid said Kidex — among the issues that PKR said necessitated his removal as MB — is solely the purview of the federal government, while the state government’s role is strictly advisory and lacked the power to reject federal projects.

“Even though Kidex is not included in the 2035 Selangor State Structure Plan and the Petaling Jaya City Hall local plans… I fear the state is exposed to legal and financial implications regarding the February 16, 2015 cancellation announcement because I understand the federal government is studying all aspect with the Attorney-General’s Chambers,” he said.

Referring also to Azmin’s remark that Selangor “rejects” the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) that went into effect nationwide on April 1, Khalid said it is easy to be an “opportunistic leader” by making populist statements and decisions without considering the impact or situation.

“If this is the style and approach of the new administration, then I repeat my urging for the menteri besar swiftly resign and hand his post over to someone who is truly qualified, for the good of the public,” he added.

Khalid was sacked from PKR and eventually resigned as Selangor menteri besar following a protracted crisis in the party and the state.

Azmin, a known rival and vocal critic of Khalid, was then appointed as the chief executive of Selangor by the state ruler despite PKR’s attempts to make Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail the MB.