By Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 10 — Without getting into details, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (picture) has declared an end to a policy spat between PKR MP Zulkifli Noordin's and party vice president Sivarasa Rasiah hours after it happened.
In an effort to contain the damage that could split the party, Anwar admitted that the controversial Kulim MP had the right to explain himself but should not have objected with a challenge.
“When Sivarasa’s statement mentioned Zulkifli, he used his right to respond even though I felt that he should not have not challenged Sivarasa. He should have just explained. This matter has been explained and it has ended here,” Anwar told reporters in Parliament House.
He also reiterated that he did not target anybody in his statement and believed that Zulkifli should have consulted him.
“Zul felt that Sivarasa did not consult him and felt that he should object. Even though I felt that he should not have objected with a challenge but he should consulted with me. Today the case is settled and case of challenge does no longer arise,” he explained.
Anwar stressed that no disciplinary actions would be taken against both parties.
Zulkifli had challenged Sivarasa to quit his party post and face off with him in a contest over party policy.
Known for his hardline Islamic views, Zulkifli's remarks come a day after the Subang MP reportedly said that Anwars recent warning to party members to leave and join Umno if they did not agree with PKR policies was directed at him.
Zulkifli’s latest salvo will certainly deal a great blow to Anwar’s vigorous effort to plaster the cracks within the party and the Pakatan Rakyat bloc.
It is also an indication that Anwar could be losing control over his own men as the outburst comes a day after his call for more discipline among party leaders.
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