KUALA LUMPUR: PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim wants to head off any rifts in the party by supporting Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli bid to be re-elected as deputy president in the upcoming party elections. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) political analyst Prof Dr Mohd Izani Mohd Zain said the move was crucial in preventing internal conflicts and factionalism. More importantly, the endorsement would allow Rafizi to focus on his duties as economy minister." This is Anwar's approach to reinforce unity in PKR avoid clashes. If we look back, there were once factions aligned with Anwar & Rafizi during past PKR elections.
"However, with the establishment of the unity govt, we have seen greater cohesion. "That is why Anwar needs to maintain good relations and extend his support to Rafizi," he told Berita Harian.
During PKR Selangor's annual general meeting on Friday, Anwar expressed support for Rafizi, stating that Pandan member of parliament should given space to carry out his duties responsibilities. Let
Rafizi have an easy path," the PM was quoted as saying in media reports.
Izani said strengthening ties between Anwar and Rafizi was crucial for the party as it prepared for the 16th General Election (GE16) less than two years away. Dr A. Aziz Azizam, a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Universiti Teknologi Mara, said the absence of a contest for the top two positions would reduce internal competition and minimise the risk of party division. He said contested leadership positions often result in factions with different goals.
"If happens, it could weaken PKR, as the party needs to demonstrate stability to the public. It is important to note PKR is now approaching the mid-term of its governance. Thus, best option is to allow to leadership positions to be uncontested, as it would ease internal tensions.
https://www.nst.com.my/news/politics/202...arty-rifts