Azmin downplays feud with Rafizi, says PKR 'big family'

One had served as Anwar Ibrahim's political aide and stood with him through thick and thin since 1998. The other was inspired by the reformasi movement to make a difference.

However, it is an open secret that Azmin Ali and Rafizi Ramli have never been on the same page.

The simmering differences could reach a boiling point in next month's PKR polls with Rafizi having declared that he would vie for the deputy president post, whose incumbent is Azmin.

Speaking to Malaysiakini today, Azmin chose to downplay the feud.

The economic affairs minister described the upcoming contest as part and parcel of the democratic process and not about factionalism.

“We should allow any member to offer themselves to serve the party.

"This is not the problem of declaring war (against me). This is an internal party election, we are all family members in one party," he added.

Asked if he considered Rafizi as being part of this “family”, Azmin replied in the affirmative.

"He is a member of PKR and PKR is a big family. I mean, whether we agree or disagree with anyone, we have to accept this is a big family.

"But, at the same time, when you offer your services to serve the party, the objective is to strengthen the party, especially now post-general election.

"It is important that we strengthen the party which is also the backbone of the government to ensure we fulfil the promises to the rakyat," he added.

However, the showdown for the number two post might not materialise since there is speculation that Azmin could lock horns with Anwar for the presidency.

The minister, who is known for keeping his cards close to his chest, once again remained coy on his plans with regard to the party polls.

Azmin claimed that he is now focussed on the Sungai Kandis state seat by-election and the ongoing Dewan Rakyat sitting.

"I have a few options. I am gathering more information from the grassroots, from every state on which role I should play," he added.

Azmin has also denied that Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his associates are using him to keep Anwar in check.

Meanwhile, Rafizi has also announced his teammates for the PKR polls, which include Anwar's daughter and PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah.

The others are Sungai Petani MP Johari Abdul, Selayang MP William Leong and Sungai Siput MP S Kesavan.

The four would be contesting the four vice-president posts.

The PKR election would commence on Aug 24 over nine weeks with the results expected to be announced in November. The nomination is slated for Aug 5. - Mkini