Former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob has described Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook’s resignation over Najib Razak’s house arrest as a mere ‘charade’ if he eventually withdraws it.
‘If he (Loke) says, “the prime minister is not allowing me to resign”, it just means that it (the resignation) was a charade,’ Ismail told reporters today while campaigning for Barisan Nasional.
The former Umno vice-president noted that Loke had announced his intention to step down on two occasions.
Loke announced resignation twice
Ismail said Loke, who is also DAP secretary-general, first announced on Sept 19 that he would resign as transport minister, but the resignation would only take effect once Najib began serving the remainder of his SRC International jail sentence under house arrest.
Ten days later, Loke reiterated that he was firm in his decision and would submit his resignation letter upon returning to Malaysia from China.
Ismail said Loke should honour his commitment if he had any dignity.
Anwar yet to accept resignation
Last night, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he wanted to hold further discussions with Loke over his resignation.
Anwar also said he had yet to decide whether to accept Loke’s resignation letter.
‘Yes, Loke did write to me tendering his immediate resignation, but as prime minister, I have not accepted it,’ he was quoted as saying.
He said Loke had a good track record in government and had worked hard to introduce various initiatives at the Transport Ministry.
Speaking after Friday prayers in Brickfields today, Anwar reiterated that he needed more time to consider Loke’s resignation.
