THE divisional elections held by Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) in April were significantly more organised and disciplined compared to previous years, reflecting a shift towards greater integrity and modernisation within the party, said Information Chief Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Fahmi, who is also the Minister of Communications, said in an interview broadcast on Sinar Harian, the improved conduct of the elections was the result of the party’s early decision to adopt digital voting tools and limit physical gatherings.
“This time the party has made an early decision to utilise technology and not allow large gatherings during voting at divisional level. We find that such a process is very helpful in maintaining order and discipline,” he said.
He praised the use of blockchain technology as a key innovation ensuring the transparency and security of the internal voting process.
“To me, the decision is right because it shows PKR is a forward-looking party, using technology to guarantee the integrity of elections, free from interference. At the same time, members have shown discipline by adhering to the party’s rule of no more than 50 people gathering in one location,” he added.
Responding to some external perceptions of disorganisation, Fahmi dismissed such views and noted that the process this year was far more orderly than in 2019, which was marred by disruption ahead of the Sheraton Move.
“For me, it is a thousand times better than before. I strongly disagree that it was a noisy election. But we all understand that democracy is noisy. It is noisy but not chaotic,” he said.
He described the vibrancy of debate as a strength rather than a weakness. “The noise is important. It is a reflection of the unity of views and attitudes. That is democracy,” he said.
Fahmi also expressed confidence that the party leadership would be fair in assigning responsibilities post-election, even to those who do not win positions.
“That is the PKR concept. Like my own experience in 2022, I lost the vice-presidency, but the leadership believed I could still contribute, and I was appointed as information chief. The party creates space and opportunities for anyone willing to serve the party, the nation and the people,” he said.
Nomination results, announced last Friday, confirmed Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s return as PKR president unopposed. The post of deputy president, however, will be hotly contested between incumbent Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who is also Minister of Economy, and Nurul Izzah Anwar.
Twelve candidates have been nominated for the four vice-president posts, including incumbents Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, Chang Lih Kang, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, political secretary to the Minister of Finance, was elected unopposed as the head of PKR’s youth wing, Angkatan Muda Keadilan (AMK). Meanwhile, the Wanita wing will see a contest between Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and Ampang MP Rodziah Ismail.
The PKR National Congress, including the AMK and Wanita congresses, will take place from 21 to 24 May in Johor Bahru, with polling day scheduled for 23 May. - May 14, 2025
