Thousands rally in Kuala Lumpur demanding PM Anwar to step down

Thousands of people demonstrated in Malaysia’s capital on Saturday to demand Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s resignation, as public frustration builds over growing living costs and claims of failure to implement promised changes.

Protesters, mostly dressed in black t-shirts and bandannas with the slogan “Turun Anwar,” or “Step Down Anwar,” marched through the heart of Kuala Lumpur before gathering in Independence Square to hear speeches from top opposition leaders. Police estimated that at least 18,000 people were in attendance.

Anwar, who ran on a reformer platform before entering office in November 2022, has faced criticism for steps aimed at increasing government revenue, including as an expanded sales and services tax and subsidy modifications, which some believe could result in a spike in consumer costs.

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In an effort to alleviate concerns about growing expenses, the premier announced a cash handout, increased aid for low-income households and a vow to lower fuel prices this week.

Protester Nur Shahirah Leman, 23, a member of an Islamic student group, expressed concern that increased taxes and higher power rates placed on major firms will eventually be passed on to consumers.

“These taxes are levied on manufacturers, so it would automatically affect the prices of food,” she said.

Anwar has also faced claims of judicial interference and doubts over his commitment to anti-corruption efforts, after prosecutors dropped graft charges against several figures allied to the government and following a recent delay in the appointment of the country’s top judges. Anwar has repeatedly denied interfering in the courts.

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Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who turned 100 this month, joined the rally and accused Anwar of misusing his position to prosecute political rivals, charges the premier has previously rejected.

“Those who are innocent are charged, those who have done wrong are let go,” Mahathir told the crowd.

Mahathir and Anwar, his former protégé-turned-rival, have been locked in an intense feud that has dominated Malaysian politics for nearly three decades.

The pair mended fences to oust the long-ruling Barisan Nasional government in 2018, but their coalition collapsed in less than two years amid infighting.