Opposition Alliance Steps Up: Anwar Ibrahim Takes the Lead
On Friday, Malaysia’s biggest opposition group, Pakatan Harapan, announced that the charismatic Anwar Ibrahim will run as their prime ministerial candidate for the next general election. Even though the elections aren’t officially scheduled until 2023, the current political climate feels like a rush‑hour traffic jam—everyone wants to get to the finish line.
Why can’t Parliament just meet?
- Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin declared a nation‑wide emergency in January, putting Parliament on hold to fight COVID‑19.
- Critics claim the move was a “stay‑in‑power” tactic.
- Meanwhile, the opposition is pushing for a rapid, democratic restart.
Pakatan Harapan’s Clear Stance
In a bold statement, the alliance reaffirmed Anwar as their ticket to the throne and urged Muhyiddin to convene Parliament “immediately.” They’re also open to negotiating with any party that shares their “principles and agenda of reform” for the benefit of the people.
Past Collaboration: Remember the Major Crossover?
Back in 2018, the polar opposite duo—Mahathir Mohamad and Anwar—joined forces to unseat former Premier Najib Razak, who was wound up in the 1MDB corruption saga. It was a classic “unlikely allies” story: a 94‑year‑old veteran and a young reformer side‑by‑side for a common cause.
- Mahathir, who ruled for 22 years till 2003, then returned to the top spot in 2018 after a landslide victory.
- He swore to hand over the seat to Anwar before the next elections.
- Internal squabbles toppled the coalition; Muhyiddin subsequently slid into power.
- Mahathir, now party founder, remains a key opposition voice.
What’s Next?
The political landscape is still on a tightrope between Covid‑19 safety measures and democratic imperatives. As everyday Malaysians, we’re waiting to see whether the relief of a rapid election will lighten the pandemic’s weight or add another layer of pressure.
