PKR deputy president’s role not to be led by nose by president: Rafizi

KUALA LUMPUR – PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim needs an aggressive deputy president to propel the party forward, said vice-president Rafizi Ramli.  

In a live debate with secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Rafizi said the true role of a deputy president is not to be led by the nose by the president, which he said is what is happening now. 

“The deputy president needs to be more agile, creative, and aggressive in campaigning to attract young voters.  

“The difference between the maturity of Anwar and also the agility of a younger leader, who is closer to the young voters, could give confidence to the people that the ideas brought by Pakatan Harapan (PH) and PKR do not only reflect the experience, maturity, and soul of the people but also cultivate the ideas and creativity of this age,” he said in a 90-minute debate hosted by Sinar Harian.

Acknowledging that he is known to be vocal with his thoughts and speak truth, the deputy president hopeful said the people want to see fertile politics in the party and differences in opinion. 

“This is also what I think should be portrayed by the PKR deputy president – to not be seen as someone who only obeys, and should be able to offer insights and visions. 

“If there is this combination, God willing, I think we can perform well in the next election.”

Meanwhile, he said there is no need for Anwar to be replaced, who rather needs a solid team of qualified and competent leaders in the party. 

Likening the current party leadership to a football team, Rafizi said it would be defeated if it has a capable manager but does not have a line-up of skilled players.  

So, he said, Anwar is in dire need of a new line of party leaders who can offer him sound advice and ideas. 

“Anwar needs leaders who can really work and understand, as well as offer input and sound advice so the decisions made are not influenced by shortcuts. 

“That is why we need to take a look at how the people see the entire line-up of leaders presented by PKR. We do have some who have experience as ministers and deputy prime ministers. 

Rafizi will be challenging Saifuddin for the deputy president post in the PKR polls. – The Vibes, May 11, 2022