Nik Nazmi reaffirms decision to defend VP post, emphasises reform, stability ahead of GE16

LocalPolitics
8 May 2025 • 5:51 PM MYT
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PARTI Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Vice President Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad has reaffirmed his decision to defend his position in the party polls, reaffirming his long-standing commitment to the party’s reform agenda and its vision for Malaysia.

“I can confirm that I will remain in the race for the vice-presidency of PKR,” he said in a statement on Thursday, acknowledging members’ concerns over the recent branch-level election process.

“I fully understand the concerns raised by party members. I myself have consistently called for improvements to the system, but the time has now come for us to move forward.”

A veteran of the party since the age of 19, Nik Nazmi described himself as a committed reformist and loyalist who has consistently prioritised the party and the nation above personal interest.

He recalled his early political journey as private secretary to Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his involvement through the party’s most challenging periods.

“I have never chosen the easy path,” he said, citing his candidacy in UMNO strongholds such as Seri Setia in 2008 and Setiawangsa in 2018.

“When the President launched the Black505 movement after GE13, I did not walk away. I spent five years going in and out of court. When the President was jailed in 2015, I, along with other youth leaders, mobilised protests and spent three days in police custody.”

At the party level, Nik Nazmi said he had worked tirelessly to expand PKR’s reach in opposition-controlled states and in Borneo. During his tenure as organising secretary, he played a key role in formalising party branches and launched the Felo KEADILAN initiative aimed at nurturing future leaders.

He also highlighted his efforts in government to deliver policies aligned with the party’s reformist goals, particularly those advocated by Anwar Ibrahim.

Outlining his focus if re-elected, Nik Nazmi said he would continue investing in political education, strengthen party machinery ahead of the next general election, and ensure the reform agenda progresses within government.

He stressed the importance of deepening youth and women’s involvement in politics and pushing institutional reform beyond the halfway point.

“This election is not merely a contest; it is a serious mandate to keep the spirit of Reformasi alive, especially as we are tested with the responsibilities of power,” he said.

Nik Nazmi warned that the upcoming 16th general election would be a critical juncture for Malaysia, as the country grapples with divisive and polarising politics. He urged PKR to demonstrate credible leadership that prioritises the needs of the people.

“PKR must prioritise the people and demonstrate credible leadership,” he said. “I therefore humbly ask for the support of all members to place their trust in me, Nik Nazmi, as vice-president of PKR.” - May 8, 2025