THE long-awaited unveiling of the Pakatan Harapan leadership line-up, following months of internal bickering, was met with a mix of scepticism and relief.

On social media, PH supporters were happy to see the coalition finally agreeing on who should lead the opposition into the 14th general election.

Facebook user Md Tahir said: “Well done. One positive step to bring down such an incompetent government!!”

Farbi Farby praised the line-up, saying the leaders had charisma, and an excellent record in administrating, managing and developing the country.

“They are consistent in fighting for people’s rights, to give them back their say. They are always with the people in rebuilding the nation. They stand together with the people through thick and thin,” he said on Facebook.

Abdul Ghani Hassan said it was a solid line-up and hoped the people would give PH “their blessings” in the next elections.

Lawrence Khan said: “Formidable front. Stay united and bring good and honour to the country again.”

Bersatu chairman and former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and jailed PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim were announced as PH chairman and de facto leader respectively yesterday.

PKR president and parliamentary opposition leader Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail is PH president, while the PH deputy presidents are Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu.

PKR deputy president Mohamed Azmin Ali, Bersatu deputy president Mukhriz Mahathir, Sarawak DAP chief Chong Chieng Jen and Amanah deputy president Salahuddin Ayub will serve as the coalition’s vice-presidents.

Also in the new PH line-up are PH secretariat chief Saifuddin Abdullah, who was made secretary-general, and DAP vice-chairman M. Kula Segaran, who is now treasurer.

While some are optimistic, many are shaking their heads in disbelief at how Dr Mahathir and Anwar could join forces, and questioning how the opposition could work with the former prime minister, whom they have opposed for years.

Dr Mahathir was prime minister from 1981 to 2003. During his tenure, dissent against the government was not tolerated, with opposition leaders like DAP’s Lim Kit Siang and the late Karpal Singh placed under Internal Security Act (ISA) detention during Op Lalang.

Facebook user Ainn Domm said many in PH had been fighting “Dr Mahathir’s regime” since the beginning, and were now upset.

“Either they will choose not to vote or vote in protest.”

Shashi Kumar said PH was worse than Barisan Nasional, with only one Indian in its line-up.

“They are worse than BN. The Indians are placed last. BN at least gives 4 (positions). Why does Tun (Dr Mahathir) have to be in PH? He will ruin the coalition because he is from Umno.”

Ahmad Mus and Deros AB posted a picture showing Dr Mahathir and Anwar with the infamous black eye in 1998, when Anwar claimed he was assaulted in jail while under ISA detention.

Dr Mahathir sacked Anwar, the then deputy prime minister, in 1998. The latter was jailed on corruption and sodomy charges, and released in 2004. He is now serving a five-year term for a second sodomy conviction.

Social media user Leo Leo, however, voiced support for Dr Mahathir.

“No need to talk so much. Cut the story short. Umno and BN now are not like what they used to be, developing Malaysia and its people.

“They are clearly destroying the good name of the nation. As citizens, we miss the struggles and leadership of Dr Mahathir.

“The longer we let Malaysia be (in its current state), the country will become poorer in the hands of corrupt leaders and their ilk. Don’t think the people are not educated and stupid.”

Bryan Seow said it was expected that some people would have negative comments.

“As long as PH thinks these (people) are the best line-up, just go ahead.” – July 14, 2017.