KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 — Nurul Izzah Anwar has officially announced her candidacy for the position of Parti Keadilan Rakyat deputy president for the 2025-2028 term.
The Keadilan vice-president said that if delegates believe she is suitable to shoulder the significant responsibilities and trust of the position, she will strive to do her best for the party.
"At times, the decisions we must make are not the easiest or most comfortable, but they come from a sense of responsibility.
"I still believe that this struggle does not belong to any individual. It belongs to all of us who have remained loyal in carrying the ideals of Reformasi since 1998," she said in a statement today.
Over the past few days, many top leaders and division-level figures have supported Nurul Izzah’s bid for the Keadilan deputy president post.
The number two post is now held by Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, who defeated former Keadilan secretary-general Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail in the 2022 party polls.
She acknowledged that some party members had voiced concerns and urged her to reconsider her decision, fearing that Keadilan would be labelled a “Parti Anak Beranak” (family-run party).
However, Nurul Izzal noted that some members welcomed her candidacy, as they hoped to see regeneration and reform within the party.
She added that the “family-run party” perception was not a new attack and had existed since 1998 — hence, regardless of her decision, she believed the label would persist.
Nonetheless, regardless of the labels and perceptions hurled at her, Nurul Izzah said she will continue to serve as she believed that an open electoral process with a mandate from the grassroots was not nepotism, but a democratic foundation that must be upheld.
Ahead of the 16th General Election, she said the party should focus on crafting a more structured, comprehensive strategy grounded in collective strength, as the election cannot be won by any one individual or through solo efforts.
“If elected, my main mission will be to work hand-in-hand with members, supporters and volunteers in the divisions — especially in the 50 marginal seats.
“We can only win by combining the strength of divisions and grassroots machinery, and reaching the people through campaigning, service and effective messaging strategies that resonate with their hearts and needs,” Nurul Izzah said.
She also expressed regret that some party supporters had resorted to personal attacks against her, including using derogatory labels and her marital status as a subject of mockery during the campaign.
“My plea to everyone: never attack leaders and comrades disrespectfully, especially by targeting personal matters.
“This is a party we built together. We can clash over ideas and differ in views throughout this election, but let us uphold decorum and wisdom. Argue with facts, not with emotion, insults, name-calling, or indecent language,” Nurul Izzah said.
The 2025 Keadilan central leadership elections, including for Youth and Women’s wings, will be held on May 23 during the Keadilan National Congress in Johor Bahru.
— Bernama
