FULL backing should be given to Nurul Izzah Anwar in her bid for the deputy presidency of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), if the party hopes to boost its parliamentary seat count in the next general election, said Datuk Seri R Ramanan.
The PKR Deputy Information Chief (I) pointed to Nurul Izzah’s proven track record as the party’s election director during the historic 14th General Election, which saw PKR secure nearly 50 parliamentary seats—the party’s best-ever result.
“Her performance is undeniable. In GE14, we won the most seats under her leadership as election director. If she returns as Deputy President and resumes that role, I am confident we could win not just 50, but perhaps 70 or even 80 seats,” he told reporters.
Ramanan was speaking after a meeting with 22 out of 24 PKR division chiefs in Perak on Monday, joined by Perak PKR Chairman Mohamad Hairul Amir Sabri and Deputy Chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi.
He added that Nurul Izzah’s active involvement was crucial to revitalising the party and reversing the decline in seat numbers seen in GE15, where PKR won only 31 parliamentary constituencies.
“If this trend continues, from 31 it could drop to 19. We need a winning formula like the one she led previously to rise again,” he said.
Responding to recent criticism from PKR Deputy President Rafizi Ramli, Ramanan declined to engage in internal disputes, stating that his loyalty lies with PKR President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“I don’t want to break party rules that prohibit personal attacks. I only urge members to vote wisely and not be misled,” he added.
Ramanan also dismissed claims of waning support from the Indian community, asserting that PKR continues to run extensive outreach programmes for the group.
Meanwhile, Mohd Azlan confirmed that the majority of PKR divisions in Perak were in favour of Nurul Izzah’s candidacy, although he emphasised that the final decision lies with party delegates.
“The support is evident, but ultimately, it’s up to the members. We leave it to the democratic process within the party,” he said. - May 12, 2025
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