Anwar indicates BN, GPS may be given DPM posts


Ravin Palanisamy

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says since the prime minister is from Pakatan Harapan, the deputy will be from the next biggest component party, which is Barisan Nasional and from east Malaysia which is Gabungan Party Sarawak. – The Malaysian Insight pic by Nazir Sufari, November 24, 2022.

NEWLY elected Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has indicated that Barisan Nasional (BN) and Gabungan Party Sarawak (GPS) may be given a deputy prime minister position each in his soon-to-be formed cabinet. 

The PKR president said that since the leader from Pakatan Harapan (PH), which has the biggest bloc of MPs, has been appointed as prime minister, the deputy would be given to the parties with the next biggest number of lawmakers. 

“Since the prime minister is from PH, normally the deputy will be from the next biggest component party, which is BN and from east Malaysia it is GPS,” he said at his first press conference in Sungai Long, Kajang. 

Prior to the general election (GE), Anwar had said he would appoint two deputy prime ministers if PH wins the federal polls. 

He said of the two deputies, one would be from Peninsular Malaysia and one from East Malaysia.  

Asked whether those with ongoing court cases will be given ministerial positions under his leadership, Anwar said the matter has not been discussed, at least from the perspective of the unity government.

“This issue was raised. As for PH, our position is clear. But since it involves the issue of the unity government, we need to discuss (with the other parties that are part of the government).”

“The difference is when punishments are handed down. When there is a prosecution, if we follow PH’s stance, it will be difficult for us to continue (appointed as a Cabinet member).”

“But, for me there is room to discuss with the parties in this unity government regarding the details,” the Tambun MP said. 

Anwar was sworn in as Malaysia’s 10th prime minister today. – November 24, 2022.


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