PKR polls: Anwar may pull out of presidential race, says Saifuddin

(The Star) – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is contesting against his wife and incumbent PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail in the upcoming party polls, is reviewing his decision whether to opt out of the race.

Speaking to the reporters at the party’s headquarters here Monday, outgoing secretary-general Datuk Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (pic) said Anwar was consulting with a team of lawyers before making the decision.

“The two issues that have influence on the decision is from the political and legal perspectives.

“Anwar has said that he would like to take over the party leadership but the verdict made against him (in the Court of Appeal) has become an obstacle for him.

“However, he will make the decision when the time comes,” he said.

PKR risks of being de-registered by the Registrar of Societies (RoS) if Anwar continues to contest for the party presidency.

The notion was nevertheless rebutted by PKR lawyer Radzlan Jaludin, saying that Anwar could still contest based on provisions under Section 9(4) of the Societies Act.

Under Section 9(4), the RoS may grant a disqualified person exemption from their disqualification, provided an application is submitted to the RoS.

It is understood that Anwar had submitted his application, but is awaiting response from the body.

Sunday (April 13) was the last day for the candidates to pull out from the race. The nomination fees will not be refunded.

Candidates can still pull out from contesting beyond this date, but their names will appear on the ballot papers.