PKR diberi amaran kepulangan bekas pemimpin berpotensi cetus persaingan

Analysts have warned that the return of former PKR leaders like Tian Chua and Xavier Jayakumar could energize the reformist movement, but question how far such efforts will be relevant in today's political climate. On Monday, Xavier confirmed his return to PKR following President Anwar Ibrahim's appeal to veteran party members who feel sidelined.

Tian Chua was already readmitted as a party member. While Chin told FMT that their return could open up space for more former party members to come back, he cautioned that it could also spark new rivalry among the returnees and current party leaders, especially for contested seats and leadership positions. Both Chin and Wong doubted if the return of former leaders would significantly boost support for PKR among Malay voters, who are now facing stronger competition from PAS and Umno.

The PAS and Umno coalition recently won big in the PRN Johor poll on July 11, taking over Negeri Sembilan from Pakatan Harapan (PH). With the support of PAS and Umno, the latter duo also overtook PH in Negeri Sembilan three weeks ago. Wong also doubted that former reformist and Pakatan Rakyat leaders could garner much support from younger non-Malay voters, as the reformist era now has limited appeal among them.

Instead, Anwar should consider greater reconciliation with Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, former PKR leaders now leading Bersatu. Wong cautioned against rushing to invite those who cooperated with Azmin Ali, who was involved in the Sheraton Step who toppled the PH government led by Dr Mahathir Mohamad. Fauzi urged for widespread forgiveness towards former leaders, rather than focusing on who can return, citing Umno's successful initiative of welcoming back past leaders such as Khairy Jamaluddin and Hishammuddin Hussein, who have since rejoined the party.