Kuala Lumpur: The Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) election scheduled for May holds significant importance as it marks the first time the party will select new leadership while its president, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, serves as prime minister.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, the International Bureau chairman, emphasized that as the core of the MADANI government, PKR’s upcoming elections are expected to bring forth leadership capable of bolstering the government’s administration. This election will serve as an early platform for the party to prepare for the 16th general election, which must be conducted by 2027.

Shamsul Iskandar noted the limited time available post-elections to gear up for the general election, which might be called early depending on the prime minister’s decision. He stressed the immense responsibility on whoever assumes leadership of PKR, highlighting the importance of having a vision and duties to support and assist the Prime Minister, who is also the party president. The emphasis is on forming a strong team to fulfill aspirations and provide service to the people.

He further pointed out that the party elections need to consider the capability to face various challenges, notably attacks from the opposition and different forms of slander. A resilient leadership with a clear vision is essential to develop programs that resonate with the people.

Citing examples of current younger leaders such as PKR Women’s chief Fadhlina Sidek and PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar, Shamsul Iskandar remarked that the elections would demonstrate the party’s pool of capable leaders. This will showcase PKR’s commitment to offering younger leaders who can manage electoral challenges and serve the public effectively.