COMMENT | Nothing wrong in doing pro bono work for govt

“If they know a new government is being formed, with Umno in, ‘Why don’t you (Umno MPs) join in now, why don’t you join us now, rather than you join later?’ I think if we did that, a majority will leave Umno (with just) 10-20 (MPs), with just Najib (Abdul Razak) and his people (left behind). Especially if there are positions. If not a minister, then chairperson of a GLC.”

COMMENT | These infamous words were the transcript of an audio recording that surfaced after the backdoor government was formed in 2020.

The voice of the man uttering these words resembled that of former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin who led MPs in ousting the Pakatan Harapan government.

Although the recording made its rounds at that time, he has not denied making the statement. But all MPs joined in supporting him, and his government found themselves in various positions ensuring additional income in addition to parliamentary allowances.

While the debate rages on the appointment of current prime minister Anwar Ibrahim’s daughter Nurul Izzah as a special adviser, it is noteworthy to go back to the past.

Having taken the stand that there would be no longer political appointees to government agencies, Anwar is now getting flak with charges of nepotism, but his daughter’s services come gratis - free of charge.

Many have asked how she was chosen especially since she...