What dissatisfaction do PKR grassroots members feel about new member election rules?

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PKR Grassroots Express Dissatisfaction Over New Member Election Rules

PKR grassroots members are voicing significant dissatisfaction regarding the special power granted to the party president, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, which permits new members to contest in elections without completing a full year of membership. This policy has ignited discontent among long-standing members who feel their years of dedicated service to build and elevate the party are being overlooked. The sentiment is that this concession undermines the principle of rewarding loyalty and sustained commitment within the party's electoral processes.
Calls for Abolition of Presidential Prerogative

Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli, the PKR deputy president, has publicly called for the immediate revocation and abolition of this special power. He described the exemption as an embarrassment to the party, suggesting that it creates an uneven playing field. Rafizi advocates for a mandatory minimum membership period of five years before any member becomes eligible to contest in party elections or be fielded as a candidate on the PKR ticket.
Concerns Over Opportunism and Lack of Genuine Struggle

The dissatisfaction stems from a perceived risk of opportunism, where individuals may join the party solely to gain positions or political advantage, particularly when the party is in power. Rafizi highlighted the case of Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, a former MIC treasurer, who reportedly contested an election after only six months in PKR, was later appointed as a deputy minister, and is now vying for a vice-president position. This contrasts sharply with the experiences of long-serving, loyal members who have had to wait years for opportunities to contest.
Emphasis on Loyalty and Demonstrated Service

Rafizi believes that genuine commitment and selfless service to the party should be the primary criteria for electoral candidacy. He posits that if members have truly dedicated themselves to the party's cause, the grassroots themselves will elevate them to positions of leadership and electoral prominence. The proposed five-year membership requirement is intended to ensure that individuals demonstrate sustained loyalty and contribute to the party's struggle before seeking to hold office.

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What dissatisfaction do PKR grassroots members feel about new member election rules?

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