Faisal regarded the debate as a trivial one as the topics have already generated enough public arguments over the previous year.
“I don’t see where this is going. They can do it as a political show but I don’t think it will sway public opinion much.
“People who are critical of 1MDB will remain sceptical and others will see this as a ploy to criticise Barisan Nasional and their views will remain so,” he told FMT when contacted.
Mahathir, now chairman of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM), had yesterday challenged Nazri to a public debate.
He had suggested that the debate centre around state-owned 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB), the Bumiputera Malaysia Finance (BMF) scandal, and the deposit of RM2.6 billion into Prime Minister Najib Razak’s bank account.
Nazri told FMT last night he would be ready for the debate as soon as he returned to Malaysia from a working visit to Berlin. He is scheduled to return on Monday.
“Okay, I agree,” the tourism and culture minister said. “l’ll be back on the 13th, so ask him to make the preparations. Or, if he agrees, I can do the arrangement.”
Faisal viewed the debate as nothing but an attempt by the duo to overshadow one another.
“Obviously, Nazri is trying to defend his boss by trying to take on Mahathir head-on.”
He said the opposition must place emphasis on their biggest challenge, which is to unite the remaining opposition parties for the upcoming general election.
The opposition must also be able to present a strong narrative ahead of the 14th general election to face Barisan National, he added.
“That narrative must be able to marry concerns raised by both rural and urban residents. It must also address concerns raised by Malays and non-Malays.
“That’s the biggest challenge for the opposition.”
Faisal said the focus of politicians should be to address bread and butter issues plaguing the public instead of engaging in such debates.
“Debate on how to move the country forward in view of the declining rate of growth and rising cost of living.
“If they want to speak on issues pertaining to 1MDB, then discuss constructively on how to reduce leakages and prevent another 1MDB from happening again.
“In short, the debate must be substantive and constructive.”
When asked on the possibility of the debate backfiring on BN, Faisal remained steadfast in his stance, saying it will not sway rural support.
“Let’s say if Mahathir wins the debate. It won’t be publicised in the mainstream media.
“Stories will be circulating on the internet but I doubt it will reach the targeted audience.”