Surendran's departure signals need for reform implementation - Analyst

SHAH ALAM - The departure of former Padang Serai MP N. Surendran from PKR on Wednesday was perceived to have a significant impact on the party's support base.

Political analyst Dr Hussain Yusri Zawawi said Surendran's departure not only deprived PKR of a capable lawmaker but also undermined confidence in the party's leadership.

"Through media coverage, Surendran's actions have undermined support for PKR, making it increasingly challenging for the party to maintain its credibility with the public.

"The level of public support has diminished significantly.

"The party leadership is now viewed as less reliable.

"Moreover, there remain numerous policy issues that the government has yet to address, as promised by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

"Members are becoming disillusioned," he told Sinar when contacted.

On Wednesday, Surendran announced his decision to leave PKR, citing his disappointment with the party's leadership, which he accused of failing to uphold its reform agenda.

The lawyer had previously served as the MP for Padang Serai from 2013 to 2018.

Meanwhile, Hussain stressed that Surendran's actions, given his former position as Vice President of PKR, serve as a warning to the current leadership of Pakatan Harapan (PH) to redouble efforts in implementing promised reforms.

"This highlights the imperative for the government, particularly Anwar, to take more assertive measures in addressing the concerns of the people.

"Failure to do so may result in further defections and a loss of full support for Anwar," he added.