PETALING JAYA – PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar has defended her decision to contest the party’s deputy president post in the upcoming central leadership elections, stating that her move stems from a sense of responsibility to the party and its future. Acknowledging mixed public reactions—some hopeful for rejuvenation and others critical of potential nepotism—Nurul Izzah said she respected both views, which she believed were driven by love for PKR.
Addressing allegations of nepotism, particularly given her position as the eldest daughter of PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, she noted that similar accusations had been made in the past during her successful bids for the vice-presidency in 2010, 2014, and 2018. She pointed out that those accusations only ceased when she chose not to contest in 2022, instead contributing through the Ayuh Malaysia movement, advocating for policy changes in areas such as technical education and climate adaptation.
Despite not contesting then, she was still appointed as a vice-president. In her latest statement, Nurul Izzah argued that the distinction between nepotism and a democratic contest must be understood clearly, emphasizing that any position she seeks is subject to grassroots votes, not familial appointment. She reiterated that if elected, she has no ambition for a Cabinet role, but instead plans to focus on preparing PKR branches and volunteers—particularly in 50 marginal constituencies—for the 16th general election.
Support for her candidacy has come from several party leaders, including Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Harim and Wanita PKR chief Fadhlina Sidek, who both dismissed nepotism concerns and praised her track record. Nurul Izzah’s announcement comes amid internal PKR shifts, with current deputy president Rafizi Ramli taking a leave of absence following divisional poll losses by several of his allies. Rafizi has since confirmed his intention to defend his post, setting up a direct contest between him and Nurul Izzah. Nominations close at 11.59pm today.