KUALA LUMPUR – Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has asserted that Malaysia has veered towards a “rule of no law” under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration.
Expressing his endorsement for Perikatan Nasional (PN) ahead of the upcoming by-elections, Dr Mahathir alleged that the restriction on discussing the sensitive 3R issues (race, religion, and royalty) was a tactic to silence the people from voicing their opinions.
“The constitution references race, stating that ‘this is Malay land, it belongs to the Malays’.
“If I am wrong (for speaking about race), then the constitution is too,” he stated during the coalition’s final ceramah for the Pulai by-election this evening.
“If you apply the law selectively, singling me out, it becomes unjust when the government itself engages in discussions about race and promotes multiculturalism. You cannot speak of diversity while denying me the right to discuss a single race.”
“Laws should be enacted and enforced fairly, without prejudice against anyone, not just your (Pakatan Harapan) adversaries. This is not the essence of law – the prime minister does not possess the authority to dictate terms within the constitution.”
The former two-time prime minister also humorously remarked that in a country lacking the rule of law, individuals in positions of power could potentially evade prosecution, alluding to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s discharge not amounting to an acquittal.
“If you desire safety, aspire to become the prime minister. Regardless of the offence, once you assume office tomorrow, you are virtually untouchable,” he quipped.
“This is not a nation governed by the rule of law; it has become a ‘rule of no law’ country.”
He also criticised his former party, Umno, for appearing to bow to DAP, while urging the Chinese community to remain steadfast in upholding their principles.
“Chinese communities have traditionally been steadfast in upholding principles and the rule of law,” he said.
“The Chinese community tends to support DAP because it is a Chinese-based party, despite its flaws and departure from principles.
“I hope the Chinese community maintains its commitment to principles, as it is a commendable stance. These individuals are supporting the release of (Zahid) – they have abandoned their principles.” – September 8, 2023