AS PKR leaders campaign nationwide to win party positions at central and divisional levels, the party’s president-elect, Anwar Ibrahim, said he has received complaints of alleged money politics and abuse.

He said if the allegations were proven to be true, he would take action.

“I have heard of candidates telling members to support them and they will be rewarded with positions and bribes. Those who don’t support them will get sacked.

“If there is proof to the allegations, not only the person elected, even you (those who support the candidates for rewards) will be sacked.

“If I lead as president, there will be times when I will be strict to protect the party and keep it strong,” he said at the opening of Penang PKR’s divisional annual general meeting in Prai today.

Anwar also warned members against insulting fellow members or doing anything that could split or betray the party.

He reminded PKR leaders and members numerous times to return to the party’s roots and struggles.

He recalled the days when PKR had nothing, and when members talked about or criticised the BN administration too much risked being locked up. 

“PKR is different. It was formed for reform and represents all races. PKR has to return to its struggles against graft and power abuse so the party will not be ruined.

“The old pain and suffering we experienced should teach us to be better and understand the true meaning of freedom and the passion for justice.

“Don’t use money to buy votes, and don’t abuse your power to threaten members for support,” he said.

Anwar told party members that he did not care about “cai” (Chinese term for menu, referring to list of people in a politician’s camp), telling them that they should only elect the best leaders.

“What kind of PKR leaders do you choose? You choose the best. Those who understand the idealism of the reform struggle for justice and equality for the people.

“The core of the party is the people… we have to remember our work style, and not follow the old ways. How can we have that same behaviour?

“The supporters, too. Don’t judge leaders by their promises,” he said.

Anwar said regardless who won or lost in the party polls, he would be embrace everyone as family.

“If I am president of the party, I will take everyone as my family. If you think this is not right, then replace me and choose someone else.”

The stiffest contest in the PKR polls so far is the race for deputy president, with vice-president Rafizi Ramli challenging incumbent Azmin Ali for the No. 2 post.

Anwar had won the presidency uncontested, taking over from his wife, Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail. – September 2, 2018.