IPOH: PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has raised alarm over what he describes as growing signs of nepotism and sycophancy within the party, cautioning that it is beginning to adopt the very practices it once opposed.
Speaking ahead of the party's internal elections later this month, Rafizi questioned the potential candidacy of Nurul Izzah Anwar — daughter of PKR president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim — for the party's deputy presidency.
He warned that such developments risk undermining public confidence and party discipline.
"The issue of nepotism isn't just about nepotism itself, because people know that when the president is the prime minister and his child is the (PKR) deputy president, it opens the door to sycophancy and flattery.
"That's why people dislike nepotism. No matter how we try to justify it, the culture within our party makes people feel that even if I disagree with Nurul Izzah, I still have to kiss her hand because her father is the prime minister. Others may not say it, but I'll say it plainly.
Rafizi added that the presence of political dynasties — even if unintentional — can shape perceptions among voters and party members alike.
"That's why, across society, when people see the children of leaders, they feel it's best to avoid them. Don't do it because it changes the public's perception," he said.
"What worries me more is that we are being watched by the public, and some of our campaigning methods are beginning to resemble those we once criticised when fighting Umno," he said last night.
Nurul Izzah, will contest against Economy Minister Rafizi in party elections on May 22 for the number two position in PKR.
Nurul Izzah confirmed on May 9 that she will be vying for the party's deputy presidency.
The winner is widely seen as the likely successor to 77-year-old Anwar, who is expected to be re-elected unopposed as PKR president. - NST
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