Johor PKR said the proposal to name a successor to party president Anwar Ibrahim in the upcoming elections is "unpleasant" and premature.
Its vice-chairperson Jimmy Puah (above) said PKR currently has a clear leadership structure and institution, with Anwar as president and his daughter, Nurul Izzah serving as his deputy - both elected through the party's democratic process.
“The main principle of PKR’s struggle has always been centred on respecting the voice and decisions made by the grassroots,” he said in a statement today.
Puah was commenting on the views of Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim, who suggested that former PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli should be given a larger role soon by leading the party.
Earlier, when asked to comment on Rafizi's outspoken criticisms, Hassan said the Pandan MP should continue to be given space to voice critical views against the government.
Beyond that, Hassan opined, Rafizi could be given a larger role when PKR holds its party election, as Anwar cannot remain the president forever.
“I suggest if we (Pakatan Harapan) win again, we appoint him (Anwar) as prime minister for one more term, but within PKR, I suggest Rafizi become president while Nurul Izzah remains as deputy president," Hassan said.
Respect the leadership institution
Commenting further, Puah stressed that all parties, regardless of position, should respect the existing leadership institution and avoid polemics that could affect the stability and focus of the party's work.
The Tebrau MP also said it was not the time for issues such as future leadership to be raised.
“When the time arrives, let the grassroots make the choice, and the top leadership will carry out the trust based on the mandate given,” he said.
However, Puah agreed that Rafizi, as an MP, should continue to be given space to voice views and criticisms, particularly regarding issues that directly affect the people.
“Examples of relevant criticism such as the issue of tax refund arrears, economic issues, and others are important to ensure government policies are constantly improved for the benefit of the people,” he said.
Ally turned critic
Since losing the PKR deputy presidency race to Nurul Izzah and resigning from the cabinet last year, Rafizi has become more vocal in criticising party figures and government matters.
Besides his social media posts where he frequently shares his opinions on various issues, the former economy minister also hosts his own podcast, dubbed “Yang Berhenti Menteri”.
In one of his podcast episodes last December, Rafizi asserted that he had raised several concerns internally during his time in the cabinet, but had opted to give Anwar the benefit of the doubt in hopes that the prime minister would make changes.
Having exhausted all available avenues, Rafizi said he believes there are still issues that need to be raised, and he is voicing them now, especially since he is no longer bound by cabinet rules. - Mkini
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