Anwar contestability in Perak

Anwar Ibrahim

PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that he will compete in the Silver in the General Election of 13th (13th General Elections) to be held the coming weeks following the dissolution of Parliament today.

He said Silver selection is to boost people's support in the state.

"I declare I am competing in the Silver. I want to boost the morale of the people there," he said at a press conference at the party headquarters here today.

The press conference was held about six hours after the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced the dissolution of Parliament.

Anwar said he will meet next day to avoid misunderstandings among his supporters in the constituency.

Stressing a stronghold of Penang Pakatan Rakyat, Anwar said he was confident that with the support given over the years people will continue.

Two weeks ago, Anwar said he is considering running either Silver or Selangor.

Anwar, who is also Member of Parliament for the constituency, said he would begin the 'seduction' of the people in the constituency who gave them to him over the past three decades to 'go' to Silver.

He also expressed confidence in the acceptance of the people with the reasons given and believe it will continue to be supported even be competing elsewhere.

"I will persuade them, I believe they will understand and let me go," he said.

Anwar, who did not contest the 1999 general elections, 2004 and 2008, returned to the area elected representatives through elections in August 2008.

He retained the seat until 1999.