Expert predicts fiercer contest for PKR's top leadership posts

SHAH ALAM – The race for PKR’s top leadership positions is expected to be more intense following a series of surprises at the branch level, where many prominent and high-ranking figures were defeated by their opponents.

Political analyst from Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin Dr Hussain Yusri Zawawi said some of the most hotly contested positions were expected to be those for the Central Leadership Council (MPP) members and the vice-president posts.

"This situation opens the door to a clash between two generations, those who have long held power in the party and the younger generation bringing fresh ideas and new approaches.

"If this is not managed well, it could lead to internal division, but within the framework of democracy, it can also strengthen legitimacy.

"The top leadership must reassess how they engage with grassroots members. A good track record is not enough. Leaders need to be seen as accessible, accountable and genuine. Otherwise, unconventional candidates may continue to win, as we’re seeing now," he told Sinar.

On whether there was a message being sent by the grassroots through these results, Hussain said it reflected a desire for internal reform and a shift towards more progressive and representative leadership.

He added that in political science, this was known as the anti-incumbency phenomenon which was a rejection of incumbents perceived as failing to meet expectations or bring about sufficient change.

"Party members, especially from the younger and middle generations, may be growing tired of conventional political approaches.

"Although figures like Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and Adam Adli Abdul Halim came from the reformist movement, once they joined the government, they began to be seen as part of the status quo.

"The grassroots want leaders who are not just reformists in slogans, but in real, concrete action," he said.