Anwar tries to heal wounds, tells PKR winners not to purge losers

PKR AGM | Newly-minted PKR president Anwar Ibrahim today sought to address the rift in his party accentuated by aggressive campaigning during the nine-week long party election.

In his winding-up speech at the 13th PKR Congress, Anwar asked those who lost in the polls to back their victorious rivals, but also reminded winners not to purge the losers.

"Those who have lost must accept the majority's decision and support (the new leaders).

"But those who have won should not think that they are so powerful that they want to get rid of others," he said.

Anwar also made reference to Mohamed Azmin Ali and Rafizi Ramli, who were engaged in a bitter battle for the PKR deputy president post. 

Azmin, the incumbent, succeeded in defending his position.

Leadership position

The PKR leader stressed that as long as he leads the party, all sides will have a place in the party.

"If we see the majority decision has chosen Azmin, then give him the fullest support.

"If we see Rafizi's record, particular in Invoke and exposing major scandals by BN/Umno and his important role, we should bring him into the party leadership.

"This should not only apply at the central leadership council level, but also at the states and divisions," he said.

After the speech, Anwar was asked by journalists about the position Rafizi would assume, but remained coy.

"Do you have any suggestion?" he quipped.

On a separate matter, Anwar was asked if PKR would still maintain the post of party de facto leader that he previously occupied.

Anwar was again elusive, asking jokingly if reporters were suggesting that Rafizi be nominated to the position.

The position of de facto leader was created in 2007 specifically for Anwar, as he could not hold any formal position due to his incarceration.

However, the position is now vacant with Anwar formally assuming the position of PKR president.

'What I want is a holiday'

When asked about being appointed to the new PKR leadership lineup, Rafizi joked that he what he wants now is a holiday.

"Just give me some time. Anwar will discuss the matter internally in the party to determine the lineup.

"I will consider Anwar's consideration as well as my personal plans."

Rafizi said he plans to focus on the grassroots, and implement his election pledge to set up a cooperative for PKR members despite his defeat. - Mkini