Anwar happy to be ‘back’

30-04-2008
Anwar happy to be ‘back’
by Sharon Tan

KUALA LUMPUR: “Now that I am here, I will stay. There is no turning back,” said Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim after setting foot in parliament for the first time in 10 years.

Anwar almost missed the opening of the 12th parliament session because his wife, PKR president and opposition leader Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, did not receive the invitation for her spouse until the eleventh hour, seemingly due to a miscommunication.

“This is a new beginning. When I am in, I will not leave,” said Anwar who was met after a tea reception with the king, prime minister, deputy prime minister and spouses.

Asked when he would make an official return to parliament, he said: “I will discuss with the leader of the opposition. Give her some time.”

Anwar said it was too early to speak about his return. He added that his immediate thoughts were on ensuring that Pakatan Rakyat members of parliament (MPs) carry out their responsibilities well, pose stiff opposition and laying siege to parliament, so that it could function effectively within democratic processes. He also wants Pakatan Rakyat to govern their states well.

Meanwhile, Wan Azizah said Anwar would be back when the time is right. “Today he has come as a mark of respect for the august house, which he was once a leader. Now he is in-waiting.”

On how he felt watching the proceedings from the gallery, he said: “It is ok. You would grow accustomed to the fact that you have been away for some time. Ten years is a long time but I feel good to be back to accompany the opposition chief.”

Asked if the feeling was different from the time he was deputy prime minister, Anwar said: “It makes you more humble and respect the grand lady (referring to Wan Azizah).”

Asked how he was received at the tea reception, he said they were polite and he was seated with the queen at the spouses table as he was accompanying Wan Azizah.

Anwar also said he chatted with his old friends. “I am very civil about that. I always believe in politics you shouldn’t be bitter and personal. I accord them the same respect. I was happy to meet some of my very old friends including those in the cabinet. They said nice things and I reciprocated.”

The former deputy prime minister was proud that both his wife and daughter are in parliament.

“I am pleased that Azizah is leader of the opposition. She is credible and competent on her own accord and strength. She is no longer (here) by virtue of being Anwar’s wife. She is on her own.

“I am glad Nurul is able to come in. She has to perform. As a father, naturally I am very proud of her. She is smart and very hardworking,” said Anwar.

Asked if he would take over from any of them, he said: “I told you there is a possibility of Kuala Kangsar and some other seats.”

Anwar also clarified Pasir Mas MP Datuk Ibrahim Ali’s status. Ibrahim was listed as an independent in parliament although he contested under the PAS ticket. “PAS told me he is in the Pakatan,” said Anwar.

On the extra votes that BN’s Datuk Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar received in the contest for the deputy speaker post, he said he had discussed the matter with Pakatan Rakyat party leaders and the reason given was that there was no clear instruction on the matter.