‘Party within the party’: Nurul Izzah says PKR unity threatened by internal clashes

Malaysia’s opposition party, Pakatan Rakyat (PKR), faces potential internal strife that could weaken its strength, according to deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar. Addressing a joint congress of the Wanita Keadilan and Angkatan Muda Keadilan in Ayer Keroh today, Izzah cautioned against the dangers of internal disputes. "We cannot be strong as an organisation if there is a party within the party, two captains steering one ship, or the existence of an invisible hand, a hidden power structure behind the visible power structure," she stated, emphasizing that factionalism could undermine the unity of the party.

Izzah argued that the party's energy should not be consumed by internal disagreements, pointing out that time spent quarrelling among members is time lost in securing public support. She reiterated that PKR's priorities should remain on democratising the economy, striving to do good, and securing electoral victories, acknowledging that the path forward would not be without challenges.

The PKR national congress, which commenced yesterday, is set to conclude on Sunday, following several notable departures from the party, including former leaders Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.