Criticise govt but leave Anwar, PKR alone, MP tells ‘gang of 4’

Johor Bahru MP Hassan Karim has implored the four former PKR members, who have now joined the opposition-led Bersama and are often referred to as the "gang of four", to cease their continual personal attacks on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and PKR. Karim argued that these relentless assaults are inadvertently benefiting their rival parties, Umno and PN, instead of aiding Bersama's prospects in the upcoming general election (GE16).

He cautioned that while voicing discontent with the government and its policies, as he often does, is permissible, non-stop disparagement of Anwar and PKR will not contribute to Bersama's growth. Karim emphasized that Umno and PN would capitalize on these emotive reactions, a point he underscored by reminding the group that their current leadership positions owe their existence to PKR.

He also cautioned against destroying the party that had been instrumental in their political careers. Karim reminded his former colleagues that Rafizi Ramli, now a leading figure in Bersama, had previously cautioned him against over-evasiveness, a directive he had followed due to his trust in PKR. Karim underscored that PKR is not the "Anwar family party" that many insinuate it to be; rather, it is the leading party in the unity government steering the nation forward.

He also recalled Rafizi's past support for him, despite Rafizi serving as Johor PKR chief at one point. Karim urged the former PKR members to recognize that PKR is not a family-oriented entity, but a lead party in the unity government, driving national progress. He further pointed out that a reshuffle within PKR, where Rafizi could have succeeded Anwar as president, may have resulted in a more robust Pakatan Harapan and a seamless transition.