BUTTERWORTH: Nurul Izzah Anwar's goal in contesting the PKR deputy president post is to focus on strengthening the for the coming general election and beyond.
In a statement Friday (May 9), she said that many party members, including grassroots leaders, had welcomed her participation in the current party elections.
"They want to see regeneration and renewal in our party (PKR).
"My decision has brought about unfounded accusations, scrutiny and personal attacks as well.
"I welcome all feedback and this is the only way to soldier our journey to reclaim the mantle of reforms and initiate meaningful change," she said.
She said she wants to be a leader who listens and knows she cannot achieve success alone.
"We can only succeed and continue to do so, as a team. 'Reformasi' is not glamorous and is slow and thankless but necessary.
"I realise as the unity government continues its work on the executive front, my focus must be on strengthening the party for the coming general election and beyond," she said.
Nurul Izzah said she will serve the party and this time would like to offer herself as a candidate for the post of deputy president.
"Not to be appointed, but to contest and obtain support from the party.
"Some have expressed concerns and asked me to reconsider this decision because they are worried that PKR would be labeled as the 'Parti Anak Beranak'.
"This is not new and since 1998, this label has been used to tarnish and belittle our collective struggle.
"When I won the vice-presidency with the highest votes in 2010, 2014 and 2018, the same attacks were leveled against me.
"The attacks only disappeared in 2022, as I decided against any contest," she said.
"The allegation of nepotism will continue and we cannot change our past, or our familial links, but we continue to hold on to our principles.
"Regardless of the titles and perceptions that have been thrown around for decades, I will continue to serve because I am convinced that the process of contesting openly and then receiving a mandate from the grassroots is not a form of nepotism," she said.
She said when facing the 16th General Election (GE16), the party needs to move forward with a structured, comprehensive strategy centered on shared strength.
"If I am elected as deputy president, my main mission will be to work together with members, supporters and volunteers at all our branches - especially in the 50 marginal seats," she said.
The daughter of party president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Nurul Izzah previously served as PKR vice-president and was a founding member of the party.
