Anwar stands by Nurul’s choice
Her decision is true to her character, says PKR president
May 9 was a watershed for many reasons, but our victory in attaining greater democratic space will count for nothing if the agenda for reform is sabotaged. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim
PETALING
JAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stands by his daughter Nurul Izzah’s decision to step down as PKR vice-president, saying that it is completely in keeping with her character of someone who has always had the courage to stand up for her ideals and beliefs.
The PKR president said he had discussed with Nurul Izzah her intention to step down at length.
“It is not my place to divulge details, but I do know that with the pace of political developments (having) been relentless for the last nine months, she is sick and tired of the deception and machinations of those who are far more interested in playing politics instead of focusing on helping the rakyat they purport to serve.
“For example, there is disillusionment by the recent jumping of members of Parliament to save their political skins or worse still, to shore up power for nefarious ends,” Anwar said in a statement yesterday.
Nurul Izzah resigned as the vice-president and relinquished her appointment as Penang PKR chief on Monday.
She will remain a member of the parliamentary backbench committed to reforms, but will no longer serve the federal government in any capacity.
Anwar said despite being elected vice-president with an overwhelming majority and appointed Penang PKR chairperson following a convincing majority of the state’s division chiefs, Nurul Izzah had chosen to step down.
“This is an indictment of certain individuals within the party leadership ranks whose deceptive platitudes place individual greed above party unity.
“For the last 20 years, the spirit of ‘Reformasi’ has been burning with- in Nurul Izzah who alongside fellow reformists have remained steadfast and persevered against a multitude of challenges as they remained true to its path.
“May 9 was a watershed for many reasons, but our victory in attaining greater democratic space will count for nothing if the agenda for reform is sabotaged,” he said.
Anwar added that while he could not deny that Nurul Izzah’s decision was a great loss not only to PKR but to the entire nation, he called on all party members and Malaysians to respect her decision.
“Give her space to reflect on and ultimately decide on her next course of action.
“With her sense of duty and commitment of placing the interests of the rakyat above hers, I have no doubt that she will continue to serve honourably and admirably,” said Anwar.