Nurul Izzah Anwar has underlined that her political journey remains her own, despite being the daughter of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. While campaigning for the PKR deputy president post, she addressed concerns of nepotism, making it clear that her identity as a leader is shaped by personal conviction rather than family ties.
Acknowledging the difficulty in escaping her father’s shadow, Izzah pointed out that she has, at times, held differing views from the party leadership, including her own father. Past disagreements and even criticism from within Anwar’s circle have, according to her, only reinforced her independence in political thought and decision-making.
During a campaign stop in Bukit Mertajam, she expressed her desire to be evaluated based on her ideas and dedication to the party rather than assumptions linked to her lineage. She highlighted that her campaign focus is to strengthen PKR as a political force, with a vision grounded in unity and reform, not personality politics.
Izzah also recalled moments when she was perceived as a dissenter due to her principled stance on certain issues, indicating that her political direction has not always been in step with party leadership. These instances, she believes, are part of her growth and commitment to PKR’s reform agenda.
The ongoing contest for the party’s No. 2 position has been portrayed by her as a family affair within PKR ranks, rather than a rivalry. She emphasized that the ultimate goal of the party must be preparation for the upcoming elections in Sabah, Malacca, and Johor, all slated within the next two years. According to her, these elections demand a united front, not internal divisions.
Choosing not to engage in a public debate with her opponent Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, Izzah explained that her priority remains on engaging directly with grassroots members. She believes that these members possess crucial insight into voter sentiments and the party's electoral strengths and weaknesses, making their input invaluable in shaping future strategies.
Described as 'Puteri Reformasi' for her longstanding commitment to change, Izzah reaffirmed that her candidacy is driven by a desire to unify the party and maintain the momentum of reform initiatives.
Meanwhile, Rafizi, campaigning separately in Ipoh, stood firm on skipping the opening of PKR’s Youth and Wanita congress, citing internal party decisions that he felt excluded from—highlighting his preference for principle over protocol.
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