PKR members support Rafizi-Nurul Izzah debate, but warn against fanaticism

SHAH ALAM – The proposal to hold a debate between the two PKR Deputy President candidates, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Nurul Izzah Anwar, is seen as a constructive approach that allows party members and supporters to form their own opinions.

PKR Central Leadership Council (MPP) candidate for the 2025–2028 term, Mohd Yahya Sahri, however, said an open debate with physical attendance could spark tension and unease among supporters from both camps.

“If it is held in an open hall with physical attendance, it could cause anxiety because supporters on both sides are known for being fanatic and having strong loyalty to their leaders,” he told Sinar Harian on Wednesday.

Yahya suggested that the debate be conducted online or in a podcast-style format that avoids physical audience presence.

“Supporters can still give opinions and comments in the chat without creating face-to-face tension.

“This way is more harmonious and fits the atmosphere of a party that is now a pillar of the government and the nation,” he said.

He also expressed the view that holding the debate aligns with the spirit of reform, which is the foundation of PKR’s struggle.

“Since the beginning, Keadilan has championed reform issues in administration, management, and politics.

“The debate between Rafizi and Nurul Izzah will be the best platform to highlight the party’s ideas and direction,” he said.

Yahya also recalled previous debates involving PKR President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Barisan Nasional representatives, including Datuk Seri Najib Razak, which were seen as impactful in shaping political discourse in the country.

“I have no issue with Rafizi or Nurul Izzah. Both are respected leaders. However, the challenge often lies with supporters who are overly fanatic and extreme in their support for their leaders.

“If the debate is agreed upon by both parties and conducted privately without the physical presence of supporters, I believe it will be a good and positive approach for the party and the people,” he said.

Meanwhile, former PKR Coordination Chief Iswardy Morni suggested an open debate between the two leaders as a sign of political maturity in the country.

He said open debates are not foreign and have long been practised in neighbouring countries like Indonesia.

“I agree the debate should be held openly. To me, this debate is something new in PKR’s context and is necessary because it promotes a healthy culture.

“Indonesian politics has long cultivated debate. It won’t give room for enemies to divide us if both debaters understand the rules and know what should be brought to the table,” he said.

Iswardy added that debates could also provide space for the public and party members to get direct explanations from both candidates without relying on one-sided statements.

“Debates allow opponents to ask questions directly to the other party, giving a more comprehensive understanding to the public and party members,” he said.

Earlier, PKR Youth Chief (AMK) candidate Prasanth Kumar Brakasam said that the proposed debate would be the best platform for both figures to explain their plans, ideas, and best strategies to strengthen the Unity Government, Pakatan Harapan (PH), and PKR itself.

He said that as a party that upholds freedom of speech, PKR should embrace the culture of healthy debate.

He clarified that the debate is not meant to discredit either Rafizi or Nurul Izzah, but rather to enable the public to assess the credibility of both leaders.