MELAKA: Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad advised Malaysians to learn from countries which are unable to implement democratic rule due to the citizens’ obsession with their leaders.
Such situations were caused by the people who based their votes on sentiments instead of an informed decision, leading to the destruction of these countries, he said.
“For instance, despite PAS leaders stating something against the religion, the party members still support them because they are emotional and obsessed,” he told reporters after delivering his keynote address at the 3rd National Defence Seminar, organised by Universiti Utara Malaysia, in Ayer Keroh here yesterday.
Also present was Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam.
Dr Mahathir further remarked that the opposition coalition had no direction, compared to Barisan Nasional (BN) which had consensus and was organised in forming the government.
“This three party coalition — PAS, DAP and (Parti) Keadilan (Rakyat) has no aim and consensus. PAS wants to implement an Islamic government and Keadilan insists Anwar (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) becomes Prime Minister,” he added.
Commenting as to whether this was the best time to hold the general election, he said it depended on the Prime Minister’s evaluation.
He said many voters were more aware this time compared to 2008, when they voted for the opposition because they were angry about something. — Bernama