Tian Chua says ready to face action for running as independent in Batu

 

Former PKR vice-president Tian Chua is prepared to face any form of action taken against him by the party for contesting as an independent at the Batu parliamentary seat in the 15th general election (GE15).

"This is a party I have a strong emotional attachment (with). I love and support all PKR leaders despite the internal differences that we have.

"I realise that in this Batu constituency, I'm not a part of the PKR candidates' list (for GE15). But in spirit, I'm always with Pakatan Harapan and PKR," Chua (above) told reporters before filing his nomination papers in Sentul this morning.

Chua's independent run comes after Harapan fielded incumbent Batu MP P Prabakaran to defend the parliamentary seat. The constituency is set to witness a multiple-cornered fight.

Chua, the former Batu MP, said he is prepared to face any action from PKR (for contesting as an independent), but for now, the focus was defeating BN and winning the election, while assuring the “kleptocrats” do not return.

He said he has not decided on what symbol he would use to contest the election.

Chua also stressed that he has not quit PKR.

"My part here (as an independent candidate) is to ensure we do not risk losing Batu to PKR's opponent."

He noted that PKR has held the constituency for 14 years since he won it in the 2008 general election, but with the "current situation", the fight to defend it has gotten tougher with intense competition, BN's machinery, and a combination of people who are "against PKR".

"The composition of Batu has also changed enormously, from 70,000 voters to over 100,000 voters. The demographic also changed, with an increase in Malay voters.

"With all these factors, we are seeing the incumbent is vulnerable to losing," he said.

Meanwhile, PKR president Anwar Ibrahim said Chua risks sacking as it’s the party policy to dismiss members who contest as independent candidates or leave the party.

Acknowledging that his party subordinate is a vibrant and dedicated reformist, Anwar expressed disappointment, saying “this isn't what a reformist should do.”

“Those who contest as independents or leave the party for whatever reason will be automatically sacked,” he told reporters after the nomination process at the Industrial Training Institute, Perak. - Mkini