‘PKR rivals are copying our strengths, trying to emulate our success’ - Rafizi

SHAH ALAM - Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s (PKR) competitors especially those who had defected from the party are trying to copy the party's strength and emulate its success, says its deputy president Rafizi Ramli.

"Today marks the official commencement of our preparations for the upcoming general election.

"Our strength must evolve to meet the demands of the present era. Amidst our ongoing reforms, we have unwittingly cultivated unique strengths that have sustained us through the years and earned us the trust of the people.

"Take, for instance, our proficiency in organising demonstrations rooted in justice, a skill that has evolved into a cultural hallmark, epitomised by the Bersih rallies a decade ago.

"Our proficiency in public speaking has transformed political discourse. Gone were the days of monotonous speeches; instead, we have introduced a style that captivates the public by tackling current issues and presenting practical solutions," he said in his speech at the party's 25th convention held at the Ideal Convention Centre, here, today.

Rafizi stressed that it was only through PKR's delivery of reforms, direct engagement with pressing issues and dissemination of policy proposals to address them that a revolution in the delivery of political speeches occurred in Malaysia.

"For instance, I am from Terengganu and since I was little, Pas has always said the same thing, relating their speech to religion.

"The existing constitution does not follow Islam, so we need to change the government.

"But when Pas became the government for 30 months, they did not change the constitution," he added.

Rafizi also said PKR has grown substantially, with an influx of younger members bringing in new energy.

"Despite setbacks like in 2004 where we lost the general election terribly and 2008, where we faced issues of ‘frogs’ (party hopping) from within our ranks and the challenging times following president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's imprisonment in 2015, our unity has been tested time and time again.

"I am often asked, "Why stay? What's the benefit?" It is a fair question, especially during PKR's challenging times. Yet, upon reflection, I have found my answer: Loyalty.

"Loyalty is not just to our party's vision but also to the bonds we have nurtured. We are more than a political entity; we are a resilient family forged in adversity. Over the past 25 years, we have faced setbacks, but we have also celebrated victories.

"Our lives are intertwined with this party, alongside comrades who now shaped our nation's path in the unity government.

"Our strength arises from the enduring connections we have built, uniting us as a powerful force for change," he said.