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THE Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) internal elections in Perak have resulted in a major reshuffle, with several high-profile figures losing their positions at the branch level as grassroots members signalled a desire for change.
Among the most significant upsets was Hulu Kinta state assemblyman, Muhamad Arafat Varisai Mahamad, who failed to retain his position as Tambun branch chief. Arafat received 1,233 votes, falling behind Shamsul Kamar Ani, who garnered 1,458 votes.
In another closely watched contest, Sungai Siput Member of Parliament, S Kesavan, was unseated by Novinthen Krishnan, the current Deputy Information Chief of PKR Perak, in the battle for the branch leadership.
The Bagan Datuk branch also witnessed a leadership change. S Wasanthee, the state assemblywoman for Hutan Melintang, made her debut attempt at securing the branch chief position but was defeated by the incumbent, R Manukaran, who retained his post.
On the winning side, Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim, Political Secretary to the Finance Minister, claimed victory in Padang Rengas. He overcame Lukman Yahaya to become the new branch chief.
Elsewhere, Perak PKR Chairman, Mohamad Hairul Amir Sabri, managed to hold onto his role as Kuala Kangsar branch chief, maintaining his influence in the northern Perak region.
The party's youth wing also saw movement, with Zaim Sidqi Zulkifly, the state chief of PKR Youth (Angkatan Muda Keadilan or AMK), securing the AMK Kuala Kangsar chief post.
This year’s internal polls have proved challenging for several seasoned grassroots leaders. Former Bota assemblyman, Usaili Alias, was among those defeated, losing his position in the Parit branch.
Meanwhile, Mohamad Maharani Md Tasi, who serves as Special Officer to the Perak Menteri Besar for the Sungai Manik constituency, was also unsuccessful in his bid for the Pasir Salak branch.
The results signal a shifting mood within PKR’s grassroots, with many members backing newer faces and leadership styles as the party prepares for future political battles. – April 14, 2025
The Vibes.com reported earlier that Hulu Kinta State Assemblyman (ADUN), Muhamad Arafat Varisai Mahamad, was to be called in by police to have his statement recorded after he allegedly made threats by displaying an object resembling a pistol recently.
Perak Police Chief, Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin said police received a report regarding the incident from a man at 12:28 pm on Sunday.
According to him, the man reported that there was a commotion during the Eid celebration at the Taman Indah Community Hall.
"While attending the event, the complainant reported that a politician pointed an object resembling a pistol at him and asked him to leave the location. – April 14, 2025