58. PM rejects meeting Anwar

by Athi Veeranggan, Malaysiakini 

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has tossed the ball back to Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim’s court. 

Stating that he would not meet the Pakatan Rakyat leader to discuss any transition of power plan, the premier also challenged Anwar to reveal the names of the alleged Barisan Nasional defectors.

“There is no need to meet him on the so-called power transition,” the embattled premier told newsmen after handing Hari Raya goodies to senior citizens and students in his Kepala Batas parliamentary constituency today.         

Anwar this afternoon reiterated that he has the support of more than 31 BN legislators and is ready to form government. 

However, Abdullah brushed aside the claim as a mere publicity stunt by Anwar to "popularise himself".

“If he really has the list of MPs, he should just reveal it, and need not wait to meet me. He does not have the list. He is a liar,” said the prime minister.

He acknowledged having received the Pakatan leader’s letter, but revealed that it was only a request to discuss general national issues.

“The letter did not state anything about power transfer or list of defectors. Otherwise, he would not be waiting patiently buying time and making so much noise about it,” he said.

He also dismissed as "crazy" Anwar’s concern that defectors may be arrested or emergency might be declared to stop the planned takeover.

“I don’t believe in using ISA on such defectors. It’s crazy to suggest such things,” he said.