Thursday, September 29, 2016

Zahid likens veteran politicians to 'old books'

While appreciating the value of the past experience, veteran politicians should be mindful of their role in the current political reality to avoid becoming object of public scorn, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi .

The Deputy Prime Minister said those who had previously served in public office or as elected representatives must act accordingly and not interfere with those who currently serving.

"If we have become an old book with blurry pages placed on the bookshelf, just remain quite and don't disturb others below.

"If the book falls on its own, it will get angry if people start stepping on it," he said this in his speech at the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of Wisma Mubarak and related commercial project in Sentul here Thursday.

Although Dr Ahmad Zahid was quick to say that he was only talking "about a book" and not referring to anyone in particular, it was a veiled reference to former leaders who are now critical of the Government.

The rift includes the recent setting-up of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Pribumi) by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and former deputy prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who are now allied with the Opposition to wrest power from Barisan.

Dr Ahmad Zahid said that veteran politicians should not be too nostalgic and caught up with memories of the past as they must remain relevant to the young generation, particularly first-time voters.

He noted that the younger generation, particularly first time voters, were more concerned about the future rather than reminiscing about the past.

"They want what is new, what is in their future and what they should deservedly gain.

"They want something tangible in front of their eyes and leave nostalgia to memory," he said.

On a separate issue, Dr Ahmad Zahid said that the Government would look into ways of assisting former elected representative, particularly those who may be facing hardship surviving on their pensions.

He added the assistance would benefit former elected representatives from both Barisan and the Opposition.

No comments: