‘Rule of law should prevail over PH’
ANWAR Ibrahim, the former deputy prime minister of Malaysia released from prison in May, on Tuesday said President Rodrigo Duterte must make sure the rule of law and democracy would continue to prevail in the Philippines.
The Malaysian politician, who led the opposition to the government of ex-premier Najib Razak, was asked by reporters to comment on President Duterte’s “attacks” against critics, including the
revocation of Senator Antonio Trillanes 4th’s amnesty.
“Consistently, my view is that you cannot abuse the power to victimize the opposition or dis-
to know, the charge is due to what? But if I could meet with President Duterte, I would just say that I support some of his measures but I certainly want to continue to ensure that there is democracy and respect of rule of law in the Philippines,” said Anwar, who was in Manila for the CEO conference of the Management Association of the Philippines.
“[It] is for him and for the Philippines to decide but certainly if I am
case where there is abuse, I would certainly express my view,” Anwar added. “Due process must be the ground rule and that there is no way you can ignore the importance of rule of law and human rights.”
Anwar said he cared about the Philippines because Filipinos expressed solidarity with him when he was jailed over sodomy charges, which he had claimed was politically motivated.
“When I was incarcerated the [Filipino] political leaders and civil society groups, they were there for me. How could I say that I don’t care what happens here? The Philippines is a great country. You are the pioneer of economic reforms during the time of Cory Aquino. People often look up to you,” he said.
Anwar, highly regarded for his stance against corruption and skillful management of the Malaysian economy during the Asian
prison after being granted royal pardon in May.
He spent over 10 of the past 20
“What I learned is that my passion for justice and freedom is far stronger than before I was incarcerated,” Anwar said. “This passion in my mind is not negotiable.”
Anwar said that while he had forgiven Najib — who lost the recent Malaysian elections to Mahathir Mohamad — for the insult
could not forgive him for stealing from the people.
“I as a leader cannot forgive a man who has stolen millions. We must make sure that every money stolen will be forcibly returned,” he said.
Anwar is expected to replace Mahathir as prime minister. He, however, said he was focusing on being a member of the parliament by October.
During the conference, Anwar urged the business community not to tolerate corruption.
“I can only suggest to keep the belief and be compassionate. Save the societies, care for your people. Do not be complicit to the crime of the enemies. The corruption is endemic because there is complicity,” he said.
“Please help the country and your people. The country will not survive if there is corruption,” Anwar added.