JOHOR BARU: A heated exchange erupted between two PKR leaders, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan and Hassan Abdul Karim, at the start of the party’s Johor convention on Sunday (April 5).
The confrontation began during Ramanan’s speech, where the PKR vice-president criticised former deputy president Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, accusing him of attacking the party and questioning the Pandan MP’s performance as Economy Minister.
Hassan, the Pasir Gudang MP, stood from his seat in the audience and shouted back, saying it was unfair to target Rafizi as he was not present to defend himself.
Ramanan, who is also Sungai Buloh MP, responded loudly, insisting that Hassan should defend the party instead of allowing Rafizi’s criticisms to go unanswered.
“YB, you should defend the party. This party is our house. If you want to save the party, then you should not attack the party. That is not fair,” Ramanan said, receiving applause from the audience before concluding his speech.
When met by The Star after the convention, Hassan was still visibly upset and said the spat stemmed from differing opinions and challenged the Human Resources Minister to a debate over the matter.
He pointed out that PKR conventions were not the place to air personal grievances or settle scores.
“This is a convention. If anyone wants to debate, they should do it through the proper channels instead of abusing the platform. We cannot let personal disputes disrupt the event,” Hassan said.
The lawmaker also reminded Ramanan that Rafizi played a huge part in helping PKR win many parliamentary seats in Johor during the last election.
He also reminded party members that new entrants should respect the party’s traditions and leadership structure.
“You are new to this party and should learn the ways we operate. Positions within the party do not automatically make you entitled,” he said, adding that he is still open to a debate with Ramanan about this matter.
Hassan added that while members are entitled to their opinions, any criticism should be constructive and aimed at strengthening PKR rather than creating division.
