GURUN: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim disclosed yesterday the existence of a file revealing damning information about former Umno ministers who defected from the party prior to the 15th General Election (GE15).
Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said the file contains evidence of numerous irregularities committed by the former ministers during their tenure governing the country.
"Despite this, they now portray themselves as virtuous individuals," he said during his speech at the Jelajah Madani event, which also marked the launch of the state Unity components machinery in Guar Chempedak.
Anwar said this in calling on Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional machinery to counter Perikatan Nasional's narrative that they were the ones who were protecting the interest of the Malays and Islam.
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"They claimed that they are the guardians of the Malays but Bersatu had 'sakau' Jana Wibawa projects meant to help the Bumiputera contractors and gave them to the Chinese.
"But the 'pak lebai' (Pas) just simply shouts takbir in support of Bersatu," he said.
Anwar cautioned the former ministers who joined the opposition and departed Umno, reminding them that their accusations of falsehood against Umno President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and himself were mere pretence.
He emphasised the need for introspection, stating, "Former ministers, please take a hard look at yourself in the mirror. I received a 'text' message from you once, requesting that I refrain from discussing corruption and governance, urging me to focus on my work."
Anwar then went on to highlight his collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, such as Elon Musk, Hong Kong tycoon Richard Lee, and Aramco (Saudi Arabian Oil Company), to attract investments.
He attributed these accomplishments to teamwork involving ministers, government departments, and ambassadors, aimed at boosting the nation's economy.
The former minister in question, according to Anwar, is unjustly portraying the government's efforts as insufficient, while presenting himself as the sole champion of Islam and the Malay community.
"Look at yourself in the mirror, examine your track record, consider the amount of land you acquired and distributed, and ponder over your extravagant actions," he said.
Anwar stressed the importance of purging Umno of the aforementioned former ministers, asserting that their continued presence in the party would be incongruous with the current Unity Government.
"I have examined the file. This former Umno minister should not be given any opportunities. Although they appear righteous, I have seen their records and files, and it is truly disgraceful."
Anwar advocated for Umno to rid itself of such dishonest individuals, labelling them as crooks that require removal.
Present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi who is also BN chairman and Umno president, Parti Amanah Negara president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and DAP organisational secretary Steven Sim.