Review action against Afif, PKR disciplinary board told

Support from PKR members has poured in for embattled former deputy youth chief Dr Afif Bahardin after he was issued a show-cause letter for allegedly "sabotaging" the party.

In a statement, Permatang Pauh vice-chief Amir Ghazali said some members felt driven to show solidarity with Afif (above) in the face of difficulties.

"His contribution in terms of time and energy to the success of Penang and Permatang Pauh PKR cannot be denied or dismissed with this show-cause letter," said Amir.

"The disciplinary board must study and understand the attitude and soul of youths, who are energetic, active, and easily trapped by group action, it's normal for a dynamic organisation," he added.

Amir called for a review of the disciplinary board's decision towards Afif, which involves the accusation of "creating chaos or sabotaging" the party during its last national congress in December last year.

Amir urged the disciplinary board to modify its approach to one that is friendlier, allowing space for discussion and advice.

Last night, Afif felt slighted after receiving the show-cause letter, signed by disciplinary board chairperson Ahmad Kassim, which he must respond to in 14 days.

Afif is openly seen as a supporter of PKR deputy chief and Minister of Economic Affairs Azmin Ali.

Azmin and PKR president Anwar Ibrahim are at loggerheads reportedly over the eighth prime minister's post.

Meanwhile, Taman Sri Indah, Balik Pulau branch chief John Ooh Sin Hwa said members were "fairly shocked" by the sudden issue of the show-cause letter to Afif.

"He has been a party loyalist and is a capable young leader.

"We are also shocked by this recent allegation that he is implicated in any form of sabotage to the said congress," Ooh told Malaysiakini.

"We hope that Afif will be given a fair opportunity to prove his innocence and that justice shall prevail for him," added Ooh, who spoke for members in the Sungai Burung branch as well.

In the show-cause letter, Afif was accused of not obeying the party's constitution, code of ethics, leaders' directives or decisions.

"(You) should respect other party members regardless of race or religion.

"(You) have carried out activities to sabotage the party and its leadership," the letter read. - Mkini