Asia-Pacific Newsweek
December 16, 2024
Kuala Lumpur – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that discussions regarding Tunku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tunku Abdul Aziz joining PKR are in the preliminary stages.
The Prime Minister said PKR has always adhered to an open-door policy to allow healthy dialogue and inclusivity among its members.
“PKR has always been open. Some of our leaders were members of Amanah or DAP before joining us, and similarly, other leaders have moved between these parties.
“We have maintained a good relationship and made these transitions smooth,” Anwar said after the PKR congress in the Upper House yesterday.
He was asked about speculation that the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry would join PKR.
Anwar acknowledged that discussions about Tunku Zafrul's potential party members were still at an early stage, but stressed that the party never actively recruits individuals and instead welcomes interested parties to initiate discussions.
“The same applies to Tunku Zafrul.
“We have never denied the possibility. We are not in our culture to actively persuade people to join, but we are always open to dialogue.
“PKR also has former Umno members, which is part of our inclusive approach.
“Currently, preliminary discussions are taking place (about Tengku Zafrul joining PKR),” he said.
When asked whether Tengku Zafrul had formally applied to join the party, Anwar said he had not applied yet.
“There is no formal application, just discussions. We are still negotiating,” he said.
When further asked if Tengku Zafrul had expressed interest in joining PKR, Anwar declined to speak on his behalf.
“You have to ask him about that. Our principle is always to keep an open mind.
“If someone wants to contribute, we welcome it. But we make sure it is handled properly to maintain good relations with other parties, including Umno and our allies.
Tengku Zafrul, who resigned as treasurer of Umno Selangor, will leave the party and join PKR, The Star reported.
High-level negotiations for him to join Anwar's party have been completed, according to people familiar with the matter.
When Tengku Zafrul resigned from Umno Selangor, he cited differences of opinion and a lack of direction in the decision.
On Saturday, Datuk Seri Amiruddin Shari said he would continue as Mentri Besar until the end of his term to maintain economic stability and support the Selangor coalition government.
Although he did not elaborate on the details, he is believed to be referring to reports that Tengku Zafrul will join PKR and could become the next Selangor assemblyman.
Tengku Zafrul yesterday said he would make a statement on his possible joining of PKR.
