Anina: Muhyiddin thinks he’s still DPM

KUALA LUMPUR: Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) founding member Anina Saadudin is not surprised party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin refused to debate with her.

“He is acting as if he is still the deputy prime minister and cannot be reproached. What locus standi is he talking about?” she said, describing Muhyiddin as a leader who distanced himself from the people.

Earlier yesterday, Muhyiddin brushed aside the challenge from Anina, who resigned from PPBM over the weekend, for a debate on any current issue, saying she had no standing to debate with him as she was no longer a member.

Anina, who had been PPBM Women’s chief, announced her resignation from the party on Saturday, saying the party had drifted from its goals and principles.

She said Muhyiddin’s refusal to debate with her vindicated her decision to quit the party.

“If he is committed to serving the people, he should not make himself unapproachable.”

Political pundit Professor Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said Anina’s resignation would have an impact on election voting patterns.

“As Anina is a PPBM founding member, her early exit will bring much uncertainty for the new party.

“Her followers will be displeased, and they may influence other party ranks.”

He said compounded by the recent resignations of PPBM vicepresident Datuk Hamidah Osman and her sister, Hamizura, the year-old party might not have time to consolidate its ranks before the 14th General Election.

If he is committed to serving the people, he should not make himself unapproachable.

ANINA SAADUDIN

PPBM founding member