PKR leaders, grassroots in a dither over talks with PAS

 

(FMT) – Differences in opinions in PKR on the value of working with PAS in the coming general election has apparently penetrated deep into the party, from the top leadership to the grassroots.

The disagreements were underscored in a statement today by PKR vice president Rafizi Ramli and at a confusing press conference called by grassroot leaders in Selayang.

Rafizi said he believed the differences in opinion among senior leaders in the party would continue.

Hence, he called for the issue to be decided by the grassroots, stressing the urgency in finalising the party’s stand on cooperation with PAS with the approach of the 14th general election.

However, Rafizi’s belief in seeking the solution among the grassroots might not be productive as the grassroots appeared equally confused on the issue, as shown by the differing opinions expressed at a Selayang press conference.

The press conference was convened by PKR members to express support for their MP William Leong Jee Keen who resigned from the party’s political bureau over the leadership’s insistence on seeking a political accommodation with PAS.

The group of about 50 people, led by Leong’s aide Chee Chu Sang, said the grassroots supported Leong’s resignation and his reasons to relinquish his position.

“We urge the party’s president to consider his reasons for the betterment of the party,” said Selayang PKR Youth deputy chief V Anmuniandy.

Leong, who tendered his resignation on Monday, said he would remain a PKR member as well as the Selayang MP.

He also said he would not defend his seat in the next general election.

However, PKR Rawang assemblyperson Gan Pei Nei said at the press conference the party should adopt the open approach and continue negotiations with PAS for the benefit of the party and its current objective.

“The opposition coalition in general wants to reach the same goal, which is to fight Barisan Nasional (BN) and change the political situation in Malaysia,” she said.

But Gan wanted a deadline set for the negotiations with PAS.

“The negotiations need a deadline to complete. You cannot keep negotiating forever since the general election is around the corner,” she said.

On the other hand, Chee, who is PKR Taman Seri Melati branch leader, said PAS must show some sincerity to join the opposition coalition if the negotiations were to continue.

“We don’t see PAS is genuine to join us. And we feel that we do not need PAS.

“If PAS wants to join the opposition coalition, they must show that they are sincere in fighting together against BN,” said Chee.

Gan said she would leave the issue of cooperation with PAS to the wisdom of the Pakatan Harapan (PH) and PKR leaderships.

“We should gather forces to fight BN. If you want to shoot someone, shoot BN. Not among ourselves,” added Gan.