Nurul Izzah pledges reform commitment outside formal party structure following rejected resignation

Nurul Izzah Anwar, deputy president of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), has vowed to continue her push for political and social reform outside the party structure, following her resignation request being turned down. Speaking at the opening of the 2026 PKR Women and Angkatan Muda Keadilan national congress in Melaka, Anwar expressed her commitment to advancing the reform movement through civil society initiatives under the MADANI framework.

She acknowledged the varied reactions to her political decisions, noting that some people cannot accept her resignation while others are unhappy with her recent electoral outcomes. Anwar stressed the importance of adhering to core principles rather than seeking universal approval, stating that public figures must remain true to themselves.

Her intention to step down as deputy president was initially rejected by the party’s Central Leadership Council, but PKR information chief Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil clarified that she was granted leave for personal matters and to pursue her doctoral studies. During her address, Anwar called on party leaders to uphold the foundational values of the reformasi movement and warned against adopting the practices of former political adversaries.

She urged members to constantly question their motivations when wielding power, urging them to consider whether they are serving the country or their own interests. The national congress, which PKR is holding to deliberate on leadership, strategic direction, and its role within the governing coalition, began with Anwar's influential speech.