Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh has asserted that he is not merely a “political pawn”, but a leader who is prepared to defend religion, race and his party’s principles.
The UMNO Youth chief and Merlimau assemblyman said he has directly confronted DAP leaders, including taking legal action against them in court in defence of national sovereignty and the sanctity of Islam.
He added that he has been involved in two court cases against DAP leaders, stressing that he is willing to face them even in legal proceedings.
“If it comes to court, we can fight there as well. So if Sanusi calls me a ‘chess piece’, that’s his view,” he said, referring to Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor.
Dr Akmal was responding to remarks made by Sanusi, who reportedly described him as a “chess piece” controlled by UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said he was disappointed that political speeches were increasingly focused on personal attacks rather than constructive proposals for developing Melaka.
“I thought the speech would focus on ideas to improve Melaka beyond what Barisan Nasional has done, but instead it was just about criticising others,” he said.
He also urged Sanusi to advise Rembia assemblyman Datuk Muhamad Jailani Khamis, who has joined PAS, to prioritise his responsibilities to constituents.
Dr Akmal claimed the assemblyman had been absent from state assembly sittings due to medical leave but was still able to attend political ceramah events.
“The State Assembly Speaker said he is on medical leave for a fractured leg, but he was seen attending a PAS ceramah,” he said.
He added that the Melaka state assembly only sits for a limited number of days, yet some elected representatives still fail to attend.
“Maybe ceramah is more important than duties to the people. Let voters decide in the next state election,” he said.
