Promising prospect: Fadhlina (left) says having Nurul Izzah in the race for deputy presidency will reflect PKR’s commitment to women’s empowerment within the ranks. — Photo from Fadhlina Sidek’s Facebook
PETALING JAYA: With the push for her to contest for the PKR deputy president post getting stronger, Nurul Izzah Anwar says she will make the “best decision” on whether to accept the challenge.
“I respect the grassroots’ views calling for me to contest the deputy president’s post.
“Any decision that will be made must consider not only the need to unite and strengthen the bonds among fellow party members.
“It must also fulfil the need to bring fresh perspectives and meaningful changes to ensure this party remains relevant and trusted by Malaysians.
“We make decisions not for any individual but to collectively shape the party’s future,” she said in a Facebook post.
Nurul Izzah had previously announced her intention to contest the vice-president post in the PKR elections. The current deputy president is Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.
PKR Wanita and Youth wings are also calling for Nurul Izzah to contest for deputy presidency, with the Wanita movement saying this aligns with the grassroots’ desire for change, stability, continuity and loyalty within the party.
In full support: (From left) Adam Adli and Mohamad.
“Nurul Izzah as deputy president will reflect PKR’s commitment to having greater involvement of young leaders and women empowered to drive political rejuvenation,” said Wanita chief Fadhlina Sidek.
PKR youth chief Adam Adli said Nurul Izzah will have the backing of the wing if she goes for the No. 2 post.
“She is the face of the future. In an increasingly complex political environment, Nurul Izzah stands as a figure who is credible, principled and capable of inspiring the spirit of reform in the new generation, crossing various backgrounds,” he added.
Several states and divisions have also joined in the chorus for Nurul Izzah to contest, with many describing her as the party’s unifying force.
In Johor, 22 out of 26 PKR divisions have voiced support, stating that she has shown to be a leader capable of uniting the party through diplomacy and fresh idealism and described her as a symbol of a new wave of reform.
“She is not just the daughter of a reformist figure but has also established her own credibility as a progressive leader who is both brave and principled,” the leaders said in a joint statement.
PKR’s 13 divisions in the Federal Territories described Nurul Izzah as deeply rooted in the party’s struggles and well-versed in navigating challenges of national politics.
“The current political challenges and shifting national landscape demand a bold step to strengthen PKR as a leading force in national governance.
“We are confident that Nurul Izzah will gain solid backing as a key figure capable of revitalising the party machinery ahead of the upcoming 16th General Election,” they said.
In supporting Nurul Izzah, Penang PKR described her as a symbol of reform and regeneration, who has the experience and integrity to hold the deputy presidency.
Its deputy chairman Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid said at a time when the political landscape is undergoing challenges, PKR must be helmed by leadership that understands the people’s pulse at the grassroots level.
“Without a doubt, Nurul Izzah will be able to shoulder the responsibilities given as she has been tested and has stood steadfast and resilient,” he added.
In Sabah, 21 out of 26 division leaders declared support for Nurul Izzah, saying her leadership at the highest level of the party would bring fresh momentum to the reform agenda, especially in Sabah, where issues like the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 remain a priority.
