The Malaysian Insight

ANWAR Ibrahim has played down infighting in his party’s Youth wing, putting it down as merely differences of opinion.

The PKR president said the disagreements were over minor things rather than policies, nor did they disrupt work or meetings.

“Last Sunday, we were unanimous on several matters but we did not prevent members from giving their views. What became a bit of a controversy was the deputy Youth leader’s organisation of a function.

“Not a big problem. (We) don’t prevent them from airing their views. It’s not a question of policy.

“Everyone is present at committee meetings. Arguments are common during meetings. 

“I don’t think we should curb freedom in the party, but it’s different when it comes to principles and policies,” Anwar said.

He was asked to comment on the feud between Youth leaders, chief Akmal Nasir and his deputy Hilman Idham.

The Malaysian Insight today reported that six months after party elections, infighting was still rife in the PKR Youth division.

On his public apology for the buka puasa event organised by Hilman that was criticised for being inappropriately festive, Anwar said he had been made to understand that religious activities were also on the programme.

Anwar said he stood by his view that singing and a fireworks display had no place in a Ramadan event, but the matter had been settled.

“I don’t deny that it was breaking of fast function with tarawih, but I have reprimanded him on the band and fireworks.

“That is all. He has explained and I have accepted his explanation.”

Since last Monday, Akmal and Idham have been embroiled in a fight with members opf various state Youth branches, exchanging words via media statements and social media. – May 28, 2019.