Kuala Lumpur: Nurul Izzah Anwar has officially announced her candidacy for the position of PKR deputy president for the 2025-2028 term. In a statement today, the PKR vice-president said that if delegates believe she is suitable to shoulder the responsibilities and trust of the position, she will strive to do her best for the party.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, many top leaders and division-level figures have expressed their support for Nurul Izzah's bid for the PKR deputy president post in recent days. The number two post is currently held by Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who defeated former PKR secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail in the 2022 party polls.
Nurul Izzah acknowledged that some party members had voiced concerns and urged her to reconsider her decision, fearing that PKR would be labelled a 'Parti Anak Beranak' (family-run party). However, she noted that there were members who welcomed her candidacy, hoping to see regeneration and reform within the party. She believes that the 'family-run party' perception is an old attack dating back to 1998, and regardless of her decision, the label might persist.
She emphasized her commitment to serve, stating that an open electoral process with a mandate from the grassroots is a democratic foundation, not nepotism. She also highlighted the need for the party to focus on crafting a comprehensive strategy ahead of the 16th General Election, as victory cannot be achieved by any one individual or through solo efforts.
Nurul Izzah outlined her mission, if elected, to work closely with members, supporters, and volunteers, especially in the 50 marginal seats. She stressed the importance of combining the strength of divisions and grassroots machinery to reach the people through effective campaigning and messaging strategies.
She expressed regret that some party supporters had resorted to personal attacks against her, including using derogatory labels and mocking her marital status. She called for respectful discourse, urging members to argue with facts and not resort to insults or indecent language.
The 2025 PKR central leadership elections, including for Youth and Women's wings, will be held on May 23 during the PKR National Congress in Johor Bahru.