Unity govt not Umno’s idea, says Muhyiddin

LANGKAWI: Umno wasn’t the one behind the idea for a unity government between Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat, says Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

The proposal came from PAS leaders such as its president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang and deputy president Nasharuddin Mat Isa, he said.

Muhyiddin, who is also Unmo deputy president, was commenting on a statement by PAS spiritual leader Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat on Friday describing those who supported the idea as boneka Umno (Umno’s puppets).

Nik Aziz also reportedly gave the impression that the proposal had come from Umno.

Muhyiddin said he did not think the proposal would become a reality as there were differences in opinions on the matter within PAS itself and the other Opposition parties.

He said the Government was willing to respond to the proposal if it was mutually beneficial but would not do so now.

“Until today, there is nothing concrete.

"We are willing to listen to their views if they want to meet us.

Making statements through the media without a direct meeting does not give an indication of their commitment,” he told reporters after launching the Tan Sri Muhyiddin (TSM) Golf Challenge 2009 at a hotel here Saturday.

In Kuala Lumpur, former Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Umno should discuss with PAS on its proposal for the unity government as it would be good for the country.

Such a government could provide a healthy political climate and reduce politicking, he added.

“The Government can focus on developing the country and on activities concerning the rakyat’s welfare,” he said after attending the TV3 Goes Green 25th anniversary at Taman Bukit Kiara with his wife Tun Jeanne Abdullah.

“After over 50 years of independence, I have not seen the worst politicking scenario in the country as what has been going on in the past one year,” he said, adding that it was a waste of time and had affected national unity.

(Source: The Star Online)