Debate tradition part of PKR's strength, but it's up to candidates - Rafizi

Summary

• Rafizi points out that although debates are part of PKR’s culture, party election candidates cannot be forced to participate.

• The incumbent PKR deputy president says he will not push Nurul Izzah to debate him after his contender declined his offer, as he respects her decision.

While debates have long been part of PKR’s culture, candidates can decide for themselves whether they want to participate, said its incumbent deputy president Rafizi Ramli.

He pointed out that past PKR polls saw not only deputy president candidates, but also contenders for the youth chief post, engaging in debates.

“That has been part of PKR’s strength. The decision is up to each candidate, and delegates will take that into account when casting their votes,” the economy minister told reporters after an investment event with Johor Mentri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi in Kuala Lumpur today.

Rafizi was responding to a question on his challenger, PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar’s decision to reject his offer for a debate as part of campaigns for the party polls this weekend.

“So you came all the way - not because you’re interested in the event - but just to ask this?” he remarked.

No such thing as force

Asked whether he believes the debate should go on despite Nurul Izzah’s decision, Rafizi replied in the negative.

“No. I’ve already put it out there. What does ‘should’ mean - are we going to force her? There’s no such thing.

“In a campaign, every party or candidate makes an offer to the voters. My offer is that we must defend a culture where each candidate presents their ideas and vision, and we remain open to being evaluated by the delegates.

“That’s something Nurul Izzah disagreed with. In the end, it’s up to the delegates to decide,” he said.

Previously, Nurul Izzah had sidestepped the debate offer, stating instead her focus is on easing tensions and engaging with the delegates through various other programmes.

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