Otai Reformis had long fought to free PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim from prison, but now that he has been pardoned, its former chairperson said it was time for the group to change its course. 

Saari Sungip (above) said the group could still remain relevant in the changing political landscape as it could serve to keep the current government, led in part by Anwar, in check.

“(Otai Reformis is still) relevant but it will only remain relevant if it plays a role in supporting the Pakatan Harapan government, but (while it) remains critical of it,” said Saari when speaking to reporters after attending an event organised by Otai Reformis at Ulu Kelang in Kuala Lumpur today. 

The Selangor Amanah deputy chairperson and three-term Hulu Kelang assemblyperson added there have been calls for him to assume the chairperson position again, but he has so far declined.

“I did not say I might take back (the position) because I want to be confident that they will move the group towards a critical movement, who can critique the government but still remain loyal to the cause,” Saari explained.

This is especially if the opposition is proven to be lacking, he added.

“We need to have a check and balance,” he said.

Otai Reformis was a socio-political reforms movement formed following Anwar's sacking by then prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad in 1998.

Following Mahathir's return to active politics, Saari had objected to the former's appointment as chairperson of Pakatan Harapan coalition.

He, along with then group secretary Abdul Razak Ismail, resigned from their posts in July last year in protest.

Otai Reformis later changed its tune last April after Anwar stated his support toward his former mentor turned rival, Mahathir.