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KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said Tuesday he has secured the support of more than 31 government lawmakers, enabling him to form a new administration with a slim majority.
"We have a slight majority, it is in excess of 31," he said of the number of parliamentarians from the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition who have agreed to switch sides. He did not reveal any names of the lawmakers.
"We have achieved victory. Hopefully with this win we can regain the country's dignity."
In March elections Anwar's three-member opposition alliance gained 80 seats in the 222-seat parliament, with the coalition holding 140 and losing its two-thirds majority for the first time.
Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has rejected Anwar's claims as "political lies" and ruled out resigning, but the opposition leader urged him to accept a peaceful handover.
"We have now the required numbers to form a government. The PM cannot deny us and refuse to engage with an alternative government. I appeal to the government to allow a smooth transition," he told a press conference.
"We are not giving any ultimatum, he should not fear negotiating."
Anwar urged the government not to arrest his new ministers under draconian internal security laws, or declare a state of emergency in an attempt to prevent him from seizing power.
His comments came after a crackdown last week when three people - an opposition politician, a prominent blogger and a reporter - were arrested under tough security laws that allow for detention without trial.
"I wish to emphasise that the change in the process should be peaceful. We do not want documents and other assets of the government destroyed. I would like to advise the Barisan Nasional leaders not to abuse their powers, not to arrest or torture our leaders," Anwar said.
- AFP/yb
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