Azmin Ali calls for review of PKR central leadership council appointments

(The Star) – PKR deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali has urged its president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to review the appointment of the party’s central leadership council (MPP) line-up.

He said the fresh appointments do not reflect the member’s principle of “fair and just representation” and will not help the party to move forward.

“Some of the named individuals were directly involved in the non-transparent election process and caused divisions in the party,” he said in a statement on Saturday (Dec 29).

The Economic Affairs Minister said the secretary-general position should be helmed by a professional who understands management and administration.

Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, who is also Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister, remained as the party’s secretary-general.

“Similarly, the MPP’s appointment should be based on merit and not as political allies or bribe to win the vote in MPP,” Azmin said.

Azmin said the appointments should take into account the grassroots’ views in the spirit of deliberation and mutual respect to return to the the party’s struggle.

He said he had conveyed his opinion to Anwar weeks ago and urged him to focus on the party’s strong and inclusive future.

Anwar announced the new MPP line-up on Friday (Dec 28) following a meeting.

Former Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli, Tanjung Malim MP Chang Lih Kang and Saratok MP Ali Biju were appointed as PKR vice-presidents, with the latter representing Sabah and Sarawak.

Hang Tuah Jaya MP Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin was named the party’s information chief, while Setiawangsa MP Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad was announced as PKR’s supervising secretary.