Hassan won't defend Pasir Gudang seat in GE16

Summary

• Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim reaffirms that he will not be defending his seat in GE16.

• The PKR veteran also confirms he will not be running in the party election.

PKR veteran Hassan Abdul Karim has reaffirmed that he will not be defending his position as Pasir Gudang MP in the 16th general election.

In his speech to officiate the Pasir Gudang PKR annual general meeting, the 74-year-old also confirmed he will not be running in the upcoming party polls.

“I have made a public announcement that I will not be contesting in this PKR election.

“But that’s not all. In my opening speech (today), I reiterate my previous announcement that I will not be contesting the upcoming general election.

“Why did I make this decision? The answer is simple: My age has advanced, and I want to create space and opportunities for younger leaders to take over,” said Hassan.

The Pasir Gudang parliamentary seat was created in 2004 and held by BN until 2018, after which Hassan defeated incumbent Khaled Nordin.

In GE15, Hassan defended his seat in a four-cornered contest against Perikatan Nasional, BN and Gerakan Tanah Air.

Disappointed with delegate voting system

Commenting on the PKR election, Hassan noted that divisional level polls remain “democratic” with the “one member, one vote” system, but the process has been changed for the election of central leaders.

“I am saddened and disappointed that the election system at the PKR central leadership council level, including the election of the president, deputy president, and vice-presidents, has been amended to a delegate voting system.

“But there is nothing that can be done because the Special Congress has made its decision.

“As a party member, I accept the decision and do not wish to prolong the matter further,” said Hassan, adding he just wished to have his objection heard.

‘Tainted’ partner

Further, Hassan reflected on PKR’s role as the backbone of the federal government, led by party president Anwar Ibrahim as prime minister, in cooperation with a “tainted” partner.

“I see PKR’s image as a political party that aims to bring a meaningful reform and change agenda in Malaysia being hindered due to its alliance with a political party tainted by numerous records of corruption and abuse of power.

“Therefore, it is a challenge for the party’s leadership and all PKR members across the country to determine the direction of our struggle in facing the upcoming general election,” he said.

As a backbencher, Hassan had, on numerous occasions, while in and out of the Dewan Rakyat, expressed his stand that at times went against the party or government’s line, including on issues deemed sensitive as it touches on race, religion or royalty.

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