By Danial Dzulkifly
PUTRAJAYA, Nov 25 — Parti Keadilan Rakyat deputy president Rafizi Ramli has cautioned party members against becoming complacent, especially in countering political opposition now that Keadilan is part of the Unity government.
Speaking at the National Convention of the party’s Youth and Women wings, he said there is a tendency of political parties to grow complacent after gaining power.
Rafizi noted that often adopt a defensive stance in responding to criticisms from political adversaries in Perikatan Nasional (PN).
Rafizi, who is also the Economy Minister, emphasized the importance of not solely depending on government machinery to counteract criticism, which frequently includes slander and misinformation.
“It is typical for any political party, once in power, for its supporters to feel comfortable. We used to be proactive, instinctively rebutting our rivals’ arguments without the need for prompts, payment, or training. But once in government, the situation changes. Our peers ascend to ministerial roles, even to the Prime Minister’s office, and our focus shifts.
“Meanwhile, Opposition parties like Bersatu and PAS are making noise every day. They often discuss matters which are neither accurate nor factual.
“So, we must remember that we cannot rely solely on government resources,” he said during the congress this morning at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.
Rafizi urged party members to revisit the foundational ideals of Keadilan, emphasising the need for robust organisational strength and the nurturing of young, capable leaders.
“If we managed to win while being outside of the government previously, why do we now find everything challenging? It is because we need to return to our founding ideals.
“That is why I propose to the Women and Youth members here today idealism alone is insufficient without strong organisational support and talent,’’ he said.
