DAP declares "unconditional support" for Anwar Ibrahim

This came despite earlier reports indicating that DAP might be sore with its coalition partner, with secretary-general Lim Guan Eng saying yesterday that he was not informed of the latest developments in Selangor.

"As an equal coalition partner of Pakatan Rakyat, DAP Selangor will provide all necessary assistance and support to PKR to ensure victory in the by-election, and will not abandon or worse, betray them in their hour of need," said Selangor DAP chairman Tony Pua in a statement sent to the media late last night.

He added: "As the saying goes, a friend in need is a true friend indeed."

On Monday, Selangor speaker Hannah Yeoh announced that Lee Chin Cheh has resigned as the Kajang state assemblyman, paving the way for a by-election.

Subsequently, Anwar was named as the candidate for Kajang seat by Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, who was involved in a bitter tiff with PKR deputy president Azmin Ali.

Speculations are rife that Anwar is set to replace Khalid in a bid to resolve the Azmin-Khalid row.

PAS Selangor has demanded a better explanation from PKR and its Youth wing has even threatened to boycott Kajang by-election campaign entirely.

DAP Selangor however has expressed approval over Anwar's entry into Selangor. Pua said DAP wanted to ensure a handsome victory for Pakatan Rakyat and a stronger Selangor.

"If Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s entry into Selangor Pakatan can help play a major role in taking us to a higher level, then Selangor will become an excellent role-model for other states to follow," said Pua.

Pua said Pakatan Rakyat Selangor has proven itself in its ability to govern the state in a transparent and accountable manner.

"We have distinctly differentiated ourselves from the past misdeeds, corruption and abuse of the past BN Government."