Contrary to speculation of a worsening rift, PKR deputy president Azmin Ali has denied the existence of factions aligned to him or secretary-general Rafizi Ramli.

He said there is no such thing as "Azmin's camp” or "Rafizi's camp” in PKR.

Dismissing the claim, the Selangor menteri besar said PKR accepted people from different backgrounds.

"PKR is unique, its members and leaders are from different backgrounds.

"Some had joined other parties previously, some are first-timers joining a political party and some have NGO backgrounds.

"We respect differences of opinions in the party, this is our strength," he added in an exclusive interview with Oriental Daily News.

Azmin also responded to Rafizi's report with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on the allegation that money and women were sought in negotiations with the Selangor government.

The menteri besar pledged the state government's full cooperation with the authorities.

"There is nothing to hide, we leave it to the authorities to investigate.

"We also did not penalise those who made the complaint. This is because we are open and ready to accept criticism under the democratic system," he said.

On the Citizens' Declaration led by former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Azmin denied it took precedence over the Reformasi movement initiated by jailed former opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim.

Although some PKR leaders are involved in the Citizens' Declaration, this would not lead to the Reformasi agenda vis-a-vis instituting real reforms being neglected, he said.

As for Anwar's scathing letter from prison on the dangers of working with Mahathir, Azmin said it was normal for the PKR de facto leader to put forth his opinions and suggestions to party leaders.

On the same note, he pointed out the letter was for internal circulation and not for public consumption.

"In the letter, Anwar said there is no problem with party leaders joining the Citizens' Declaration. He also didn't stop it, but merely gave suggestions and reminders.

"What Anwar emphasised is that we should not forget the reform agenda after joining this declaration," he added.