The four former Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (Abim) leaders rejected the offer to assume leadership posts in Keadilan after feeling slighted by accusations that they were 'power-hungry' during the bitter party elections early this month.

A source close to Abim said that despite these leaders being 'sincere' in helping the party to progress, they were accused "as conservatives who cannot get along with non-Muslims, power-hungry, and domineering during the recent party elections".

"As such, it is best for them to remain as ordinary members and continue supporting the party without holding any important party posts," he said.

In the Nov 10 party elections, Abim members failed to win any top party posts.

Dr Muhammad Nur Manuty contested for deputy president, Mohd Anuar Tahir and Ruslan Kasim for vice-presidency, and Mustaffa Kamil Ayob for the Youth deputy chief's post.

Abim president Ahmad Azam Abdul Rahman had described Dr Muhammad's failure to win in the elections as an indication that party members were not giving due respect to deserving leaders.

He also lamented that the recent party elections had turned into an "Abim vs Keadilan fight".

Erosion of Abim's image

The sources said, their decision to decline party appointments will also prevent further erosion of Abim's image. The organisation was also accused of using its members in Keadilan to take control of the party.

"The delegates have made their choice. Let's give the elected leaders the opportunity to prove their worth and determine the future party's direction," he added.

Meanwhile, newly appointed supreme council member Khalid Jaafar said he accepted the post because as editor of party organ Berita Keadilan , he is required to be "fully informed and to participate in formulating party policies".

Khalid, who is also executive director of think-tank Policy Research Institute, is former deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim's press secretary.