NURUL IZZAH DECLARES CANDIDACY FOR PKR DEPUTY PRESIDENT

KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 (Bernama) -- Nurul Izzah Anwar has officially announced her candidacy for the position of PKR deputy president for the 2025-2028 term.

In a statement today, the PKR vice-president said that if delegates believe she is suitable to shoulder the significant responsibilities and trust of the position, she will strive to do her best for the party.

"At times, the decisions we must make are not the easiest or most comfortable, but they come from a sense of responsibility.

"I still believe that this struggle does not belong to any individual. It belongs to all of us who have remained loyal in carrying the ideals of Reformasi since 1998," she said.

Over the past few days, many top leaders and division-level figures have expressed their support for Nurul Izzah’s bid for the PKR deputy president post.

The number two post is now held by Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who defeated former PKR secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail in the 2022 party polls. 

Nurul Izzah acknowledged that some party members had voiced concerns and urged her to reconsider her decision, fearing that PKR would be labelled a “Parti Anak Beranak” (family-run party).

However, she said there were also members who welcomed her candidacy, as they hoped to see regeneration and reform within the party.

She added that the “family-run party” perception was not a new attack and had existed since 1998 — hence, regardless of her decision, she believed the label would persist.

Nonetheless, regardless of the labels and perceptions hurled at her, Nurul Izzah said she would continue to serve as she believed that an open electoral process with a mandate from the grassroots was not nepotism, but a democratic foundation that must be upheld.

She also said that ahead of the 16th General Election, the party should focus on crafting a more structured, comprehensive strategy grounded in collective strength, as the election cannot be won by any one individual or through solo efforts. 

“If elected, my main mission will be to work hand-in-hand with members, supporters and volunteers in the divisions — especially in the 50 marginal seats.

“We can only win by combining the strength of divisions and grassroots machinery, and reaching the people through campaigning, service and effective messaging strategies that resonate with their hearts and needs,” she said.

She also expressed regret that some party supporters had resorted to personal attacks against her, including using derogatory labels and her marital status as a subject of mockery during the campaign.

“My plea to everyone: never attack leaders and comrades disrespectfully, especially by targeting personal matters.

“This is a party we built together. We can clash over ideas and differ in views throughout this election, but let us uphold decorum and wisdom. Argue with facts, not with emotion, insults, name-calling or indecent language,” she added.

The 2025 PKR central leadership elections, including for Youth and Women’s wings, will be held on May 23 during the PKR National Congress in Johor Bahru.               

-- BERNAMA