Why PPBM feels it should lead Pakatan Harapan
(MMO) – Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) has defended its proposal for Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to respectively be Pakatan Harapan’s chairman and president, calling them realistic choices.
This comes after the Opposition party’s proposal was rejected and criticised by PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Saturday.
PPBM chief strategist Datuk Rais Hussin said that while the discussions surrounding the coalition’s leadership line-up are still ongoing, Pakatan Harapan parties must eventually pick a structure and leaders who can instill “confidence” among voters.
The line-up, he said, must be one that can win the general election against Barisan Nasional (BN), and that lofty ideas “ahead of time” will remain just ideas if they are devoid of realities on the ground.
“PPBM may be, like what many would say, ‘a new kid on the block’ with a very, very experienced leadership. Just the combination of Tun Dr Mahathir and Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin can be a subject of voluminous study,” Rais told Malay Mail Online when contacted.
PPBM’s policy and strategy bureau chief pointed out that both leaders have the needed credentials and experience to lead a coalition into the 14th general election and form the next federal government.
“Tun Mahathir has led five general elections and won with two-thirds majority. Yes, he had the power of incumbency then. Despite the many challenges then he still led to win after win for BN. He still has the fire in the belly to do it with added vigour, almost on steroids, given the current state of affairs.
“Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is a technocrat, with more than 40 years experience in politics managing state, different ministries and also managing general elections and many many by-elections, certainly rich in experience,” he explained.
Rais stressed that Malaysia and Pakatan Harapan need level-headed, “cool and calm leaders” to navigate the country through difficult times.
“We need to be realistic with leadership. A leader is so critical toward ensuring the right stewardship and the right directions are pursued. A leader who has extensive experience,who is willing to listen and build consensus. A leader, who have been there and done that,” Rais argued.
