KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 — DAP adviser Lim Guan Eng today accused Khairy Jamaluddin and Umno of being “fake progressives” after the former minister defended Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s style of politics.
In a statement, Lim said Khairy’s assertion that Akmal’s political approach remained necessary in Umno was disappointing, especially after previously positioning himself as a progressive and non-racial politician.
Lim said Khairy appeared to suggest that Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi tolerated Akmal’s controversial “culture war politics” because of what he described as a “clear and present danger” from the political right dominated by Perikatan Nasional.
“Two wrongs do not make a right,” Lim said.
“If PN is wrong to indulge in extremist actions and controversial style to reinforce Malay nationalist support, then it is equally wrong for Umno Youth leaders to follow suit.”
Lim also claimed Khairy had changed from the politician who was sacked by Ahmad Zahid before later rejoining Umno.
“Back then, Khairy espoused a non-racial line and progressive policies that he portrayed as fair and beneficial to all Malaysians,” he said.
“Clearly Khairy’s attempt to whitewash Akmal’s unacceptable and irresponsible acts demonstrates that both Umno and Khairy are fake progressives.”
The Bagan MP further accused Umno of prioritising political power over coalition ties, citing what he described as a failed attempt to seize control of the Negeri Sembilan government and Barisan Nasional’s intention to contest all 56 state seats in the next Johor state election.
“For those who placed some expectations and even hopes on Khairy can now see that both Khairy and Umno have proven that a leopard cannot change its spots,” he said.