Madani Raya open house 'contaminates' joyous day with political motives, says Takiyuddin
SHAH ALAM - Perikatan Nasional (PN) claims the Hari Raya open houses in six states contradict the government's cost-cutting policy aimed at strengthening the country's finances.
PN secretary general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan referred to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's previous statement that the country's debt now amounts to RM1.5 trillion, which is approximately 82% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
"Excessive Hari Raya celebrations are contrary to Putrajaya's policy and commitment to be thrifty in order to strengthen its financial position, which is allegedly burdened with debt, mismanagement, and weak governance," he said in a statement today.
Takiyuddin also took a punch at Anwar's proposed plan to improve governance, citing the alleged loss of significant government funds due to management weaknesses and leakages that have caused the debt to exceed economic growth
"Words will only have meaning and effect if it is followed by the same steps and actions, not the other way around," said the Kota Bharu MP.
The Prime Minister's Department announced last week that the open house at Seri Perdana will not be held this year and instead will be held in Kedah, Terengganu, and Kelantan. According to reports, Anwar is expected to attend three other Hari Raya open houses in Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, and Penang.
Commenting further, Takiyuddin said hosting celebration in six sates which holds state election in the near future would raise questions on the government's motives and purpose.
Takiyuddin further said hosting celebrations in six states, which are holding state elections this year raises questions about the government's motives and purpose.
He also said such moves would "contaminate" a day that is meant to be a joyous celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
"This is because the celebration could no longer be separated from political motives and competition to influence voters ahead of the upcoming state elections," he said.
Takiyuddim also said government's agencies and machinery in organising such events should not be misused.
"Therefore, the government needs to ensure such mismanagement does take place, besides ensuring all promises and slogans about abuse of power, abuse of machinery and the weakness of management that they preached before did not only remain as slogans," he said.
