FridayOL

PETALING JAYA: A massive rally planned by Perikatan Nasional (PN) on July 26th is unlikely to trigger the downfall of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government, according to veteran newsman A Kadir Jasin. In a widely circulated commentary, Kadir, a respected voice in Malaysian media, argued that while the rally may draw a significant crowd, it lacks the crucial elements needed to destabilize the current administration.

Kadir’s assessment comes amidst heightened political tensions as PN intensifies its efforts to challenge Anwar’s leadership. The upcoming rally, touted as a major show of force, aims to demonstrate public dissatisfaction and pressure the government to resign. However, Kadir believes that rallies alone are insufficient to achieve such a goal.

“Rallies are a form of political expression, and they can be powerful in raising awareness and mobilizing supporters,” Kadir stated. “However, bringing down a government requires more than just a large gathering. It necessitates a strategic combination of political maneuvering, defections within the ruling coalition, and potentially, a loss of confidence among key stakeholders.”

He highlighted several factors that contribute to the stability of Anwar’s government. Firstly, the Prime Minister commands a comfortable majority in Parliament, making it difficult for the opposition to secure enough votes to trigger a no-confidence motion. Secondly, Anwar has successfully cultivated alliances with various political parties and coalitions, creating a broad base of support that is unlikely to crumble easily. Thirdly, the government’s economic policies, while facing scrutiny, have generally been perceived as stable and responsible, reassuring investors and the public.

Kadir further pointed out that PN’s strategy appears to be primarily focused on mobilizing its core supporters, rather than appealing to a wider segment of the electorate. This approach, he suggests, limits the potential impact of the rally and reduces its ability to sway public opinion.

“While PN’s rally may be a spectacle, it is unlikely to fundamentally alter the political landscape,” Kadir concluded. “The government has demonstrated resilience, and the opposition faces significant hurdles in its efforts to unseat the Prime Minister. A more nuanced and strategic approach is required to effectively challenge Anwar’s leadership.”

The veteran journalist's commentary has sparked considerable debate online, with many analysts weighing in on the prospects of a political shift in Malaysia. While the PN rally is expected to draw significant attention, Kadir’s assessment serves as a reminder that political change is rarely achieved through rallies alone. It demands a complex interplay of factors, including political strategy, coalition dynamics, and public sentiment.