The reformasi movement should work closely with Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) as it needs a vehicle to carry its message, said former deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim.

He made this suggestion at a private meeting with about 50 reformists yesterday, according to Free Anwar Movement Committee member Zulkifli Anwar Ulhaq (better known as Zunar).

"Anwar told them the reformasi movement needs a vehicle and it is important for them to support PKR which is also fighting for reform," he said when contacted.

The term 'reformists' is used to describe frontline demonstrators who took part in street protests sparked by Anwar's sacking in 1998, but who are not actively involved in political parties.

Zunar said Anwar has it made clear that he does not oppose street demonstrations, but that this would have to be relevant to the political situation.

"Anwar told us that he defends the right to assembly. There are times when we may need to go on the streets, but we also could consider other measures such as joining political parties or sending memoranda," he said.

"He also denied that he wants to work with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in Umno."

Zunar said no agenda was set for the meeting, held at Anwar's house in Bukit Damansara, and the many of the questions were of a personal nature rather than focused on the reformasi movement.

He disclosed that a formal meeting will be held soon for a discussion of the reform agenda.

Consistent agenda

A reformasi activist who refused to be named said many in the group had been puzzled when they read media reports quoting Anwar as saying the group should abandon street protests.

He also said the meeting did not measure up to expectations in that Anwar did not respond to some issues.

"We want Anwar to tell us about his future plans, and to listen to what we want as well. I wanted to know his next strategy for reformasi," said the source.

"But many of the questions were about problems with PKR, which he had to explain one by one."

Meanwhile, PKR vice-president Tian Chua denied that the meeting was to clear the air over the group's dissatisfaction with Anwar over the purported statement linked to street demonstrations.

"I don't think there are complaints. The reformists just wanted to have direct communication with Anwar," he said when contacted.

He said Anwar had told the meeting - which Chua attended - that his reform agenda has been a consistent one based on democracy.

"What Anwar said to the group was exactly what he told people in Penang and Ipoh, and to lawyers (who had met him a day earlier). He has not changed his position," Chua said.

He blamed a media blackout for causing a situation where Anwar "has to repeat and clarify his stance".