THERE’S nothing wrong with the prime minister holding the Education Ministry portfolio, de facto PKR leader Anwar Ibrahim said, amid concerns that Dr Mahathir Mohamad had broken one of Pakatan Harapan’s election promises.

This was because the position of prime minister was not a portfolio, Anwar told The Star in an interview.

“I think that doesn’t go contrary (to the manifesto). To my understanding, the prime minister (position) is not a portfolio.

“The prime minister manages the country generally, and so does the deputy. These are not portfo­lios,” Anwar was quoted as saying.

He said the thrust of the PH election promise that the prime minister should not hold other ministerial posts was aimed at the post of finance minister.

Lim Guan Eng has been named finance minister.

Dr Mahathir yesterday announced that he will be taking the post of education minister, while Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail will be taking that of women and welfare minister.

Some PH leaders and MPs have voiced concerns that Dr Mahathir’s move to take the education minister position has gone against the manifesto.

Anwar appealed for more space and a “free hand” to be given to Dr Mahathir.

“I also express my views every time I meet him. He’s taking it very well,” he said. – May 18, 2018.