Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Youth chief Mohd Ezam Mohd Nor has scotched the conspiracy theory making the party rounds over his decision to step down from active politics come the end of the year.

Asked outright if this was a bargaining tool for a higher position in the party, he responded with an unequivocal "No."

"Party posts are the last thing on my mind right now. To say that I'm fishing for a better post is nonsense. As I said earlier, I'm stepping down from politics for the moment to try something new with Gerak," he said .

He was referring to his newly-established non-profit body, the Movement for Democracy and Anti-Corruption ( Gerak , by its Malay acronymn).

In an exclusive interview last week, Ezam said it was time to quit active politics to "experiment with something new". However, he also said he may reconsider his decision when the environment improves for opposition politics.

Elaborating, Ezam clarified that he would be involved in politics as he will keep his position as Shah Alam division chief.

"I don't have to hold a high post to be effective in politics. I can still be in touch with politics through Gerak... it's not like I will be totally out of touch. I am still around," he said.

He revealed that news of his decision had evoked much response from reformasi activists, party members and opposition politicians.

Some, he said, have tried to persuade him to continue leading the Youth wing until his tenure ends next year.

"Some told me that they are disappointed with my decision, but I have assured them that I will remain true to the cause. I must be given a chance to explore and find something effective to bring about reform and combat corruption."

He also urged party members not to listen to "baseless talk" about his decision and instead to focus on the struggle.

Transition underway

On a related issue, Ezam said the transition has begun to enable the second echelon - led by vice-president Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin - to take over PKR Youth.

"At our first exco meeting last Saturday since the congress in December, I informed the members of my decision to allow new faces to take over. They took it well and I believe that this is going to succeed."

He said deputy Youth chief Faisal Sanusi ( photo ) was in agreement as well.

"Faisal too believes that it's time for new faces to take over. I believe that arrangements are being made for him to take up a new portfolio in the supreme council."

Faisal, however, could not be contacted for immediate verification.