PKR polls: Khalid Ibrahim joins race for No. 2
By Stephanie Sta Maria, Free Malaysia Today
FULL REPORT SHAH ALAM: Selangor Menteri Besar Khalid Ibrahim tonight officially announced his candidacy for the post of deputy president in the PKR elections.
His announcement was met with loud cheers and shouts of support from the 100-odd people who had gathered at his official residence here.
“You may wonder why I’d want to contest in an election that has received so much criticism from the media and even from within the party,” he said.
“Even from my own observations, the campaign has been rife with factional leadership and personal attacks.”
“I have already said that these are unhealthy practices which must be stopped. As a party leader and the menteri besar of a Pakatan state, it is my duty to try to rectify these issues. It is for this reason that I have decided to contest for the deputy presidency,” he said.
In ensuring that his candidacy has only a positive impact on the party, Khalid has set up a special committee to evaluate its repercussions on party unity and administration.
This committee comprises Malaysian Trade Union Council (MTUC) president Syed Shahrir Syed Mahmud, Tenaganita director Irene Fernandez, PKR strategic director Tian Chua and ex-Abim president Muhammad Nur Manuty.
“They are free to hold discussions with any party leaders until Oct 15th,” he added.
“If the committee concludes that my candidacy will not augur well for the party and there are better ways for me to serve, I will heed the advice,” he promised.
Khalid is likely to face Azmin Ali, Zaid Ibrahim and Mustaffa Kamil Ayub in the contest. Vice-president Azmin is the clear favourite to take over from outgoing Dr Syed Husin Ali.
