PKR president Anwar Ibrahim has called on party members seeking disciplinary action against former deputy president Rafizi Ramli to remain calm.
Anwar, who is also the prime minister, stated that his primary focus remains on addressing issues that affect the nation’s economy.
He noted that economic challenges are far more serious than what he described as a personal problem.
I advise them to remain calm, he told reporters after attending Friday prayers in Kg Cheras Baru, Pandan.
Rising tensions within PKR
Rafizi has been openly critical of both the government and PKR since May last year, following his loss in the party’s deputy presidency race and his subsequent resignation as the economy minister.
The internal friction intensified five days ago when PKR central leadership council member A Kumaresan urged the party to act against Rafizi. He accused the Pandan member of parliament of weakening the party’s foundation.
Earlier today, Rafizi challenged PKR to sack him while defending statements made against the party leadership. These remarks were reportedly listed in a second show-cause letter issued to him on Thursday.
History of internal friction
This is not the first time Rafizi has faced calls for suspension. In July last year, 19 PKR divisions in Johor demanded the suspension of nine members of parliament, including Rafizi.
The move followed their push for a royal commission of inquiry into judicial appointments and allegations of judicial interference.
The division chiefs argued that the actions of these legislators breached party discipline and ethics. They further claimed such moves cast a negative light on the prime minister’s leadership and provided opportunities for political rivals to manipulate the situation.
