Pressure Mounts on Anwar: Judicial Concerns & Declining Approval Ratings threaten Malaysian PM’s Grip
Kuala lumpur, Malaysia – Malaysian prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is facing a growing storm of challenges, from accusations of judicial interference to a dip in public approval, just as he reaches the midpoint of his five-year term. A meaningful internal rift within his own party, PKR, is adding fuel to the fire, raising questions about his leadership and future stability.
Calls for Inquiry into Judicial Appointments
The controversy centers around recent judicial appointments, prompting a forceful response from within Anwar’s own party. Rafizi Ramli, former Economics Minister and recent PKR deputy presidential election loser, is leading the charge. He’s demanding a Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to investigate the appointments, alleging irregularities.
This demand is coupled with a call for a parliamentary select committee on human rights, elections, and institutional reforms to summon Anwar himself to provide an explanation. This move, unprecedented in Malaysian political history, underscores the seriousness with which a faction within PKR views the situation.
The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) has staunchly defended the appointment process, stating it fully complies with the Federal Constitution and dismissing calls for an RCI and parliamentary select committee as “unfounded.” However, this hasn’t quelled the growing discontent.
Economic Strain & Rising Costs of Living
the judicial controversy arrives at a especially sensitive time,as ordinary malaysians grapple with increasing financial pressures. The recent expansion of the Sales and Service Tax (SST) earlier this month has exacerbated the cost of living crisis, adding to a national debt burden already exceeding RM1.3 trillion (US$307 billion).
Economists warn the SST expansion highlights the government’s difficult position, balancing economic needs with public affordability. This economic strain is directly impacting public sentiment, as evidenced by declining approval ratings.
Internal Party Divisions & Dynasty Concerns
Adding to Anwar’s woes is the fallout from the divisive PKR internal elections in May. Anwar’s eldest daughter, Nurul Izzah Anwar, defeated Rafizi for the deputy presidency, a result that has sparked accusations of nepotism and “dynasty building” within the party.
This outcome has reportedly upset the party’s grassroots members and threatens to fracture Anwar’s traditionally multi-racial political base.
Approval Ratings Plummeting
Recent polling data confirms the growing dissatisfaction. Merdeka Centre, a respected independent research outfit, previously reported a 55% approval rating for Anwar. However, Director of Programmes Ibrahim Suffian now estimates that number has dropped by 5-10 percentage points following the SST implementation and the PKR internal election results.
“There are some things he (Anwar) may have delivered, but the ones that he has not delivered are the big promises,” notes Professor Khoo Boo Teik, a seasoned Malaysian political analyst.
what’s Next for anwar?
Anwar Ibrahim faces a critical juncture. successfully navigating these challenges – addressing concerns about judicial independence,alleviating economic pressures,and unifying his party – will be crucial to maintaining his grip on power and fulfilling the promises that brought him to office. The coming months will undoubtedly test his leadership and determine the trajectory of his premiership.
