PKR top posts likely to remain uncontested, says Anwar's aide

IPOH: The PKR president and deputy president positions are expected to remain uncontested in the party polls in May.

The move aims to maintain the status quo, ensuring that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli retain their positions as president and deputy president.

Bernama reported that Anwar's senior political secretary, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Md Akin, confirmed that discussions are underway to avoid a contest for the top positions.

He said this at the Back-to-School Programme for the Tambun parliamentary constituency yesterday.

PKR has scheduled elections for its Leadership Council, Women's Leadership Council and Youth Leadership Council on May 24.

Addressing concerns that the move could undermine party democracy, Shamsul Iskandar said:

"Contesting is democracy. Not contesting is also democracy.

"When there is no contest, it means negotiations have taken place. Negotiation itself is democracy."

Meanwhile, 'Utusan Malaysia' reported that party vice-president Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the election should focus on strengthening PKR's role in the unity government while preparing for leadership succession.

He highlighted the increasing number of PKR leaders in their 40s who hold key positions, including deputy and vice-presidents, as well as communications and information chiefs.

"We want to continue developing leaders who can work well with experienced leadership."