BALIK PULAU – Next month’s PKR polls will be about uniting three generations of party leaders and their supporters ahead of a general election, said party veteran Yusmadi Yusoff.
He said the party polls will be about finding the right balance to unite the three generations – pioneers led by president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, one by secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and young reformists inspired by Rafizi Ramli, who is making a comeback.
Saifuddin Nasution and Rafizi have made public their run for the deputy president post.
Yusmadi, who is Anwar’s special officer on legal matters, told The Vibes that the three groups have different leadership styles, cliques and expectations but share a common reform agenda.
“If PKR can emerge from these polls with the closing of ranks, I believe our foes should be worried.”
Yusmadi, who has yet to decide to contest in May, said detractors assume PKR will be gone if Anwar is removed, but his boss’ message of reform is not about personalities.
He added that certain party leaders may opt out from the polls to focus on uniting the three generations.
Meanwhile, he said Anwar deserves a shot at leading the country, as his promise of reforms is timely in a country besieged by a pandemic, a sluggish economy, and a political stalemate, which has lingered into its third year.
“Of course, there are some who disagree as they thrive in a polarised environment. But tell me, do we have someone who was imprisoned twice, backstabbed politically thrice and yet refuses to quit. I don't think even the great (former prime minister Tun Dr) Mahathir (Mohamad) can stomach being in prison for close to a decade.”
But the next general election may present a glimmer of hope for reforms, said Yusmadi.
“Anwar should continue to lead the opposition if he is healthy. Perhaps he should be given the mandate to lead the country. We have had five prime ministers who have yet to change our fortunes.” – The Vibes, April 10, 2022
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