Money politics allegations can undermine PKR grassroots support, analyst says

SHAH ALAM - Allegations that the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) engaged in money politics during its election campaign could lead to factionalism and undermine grassroots supporters' trust in the party.

Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Political Science Senior Lecturer Dr Ariff Aizuddin Azlan said that these revelations could cause PKR, led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, to become increasingly divided and alienated if such practices were not addressed.

"I believe the allegations raised could have significant implications for the party, particularly at the grassroots level and among voters, as these are very sensitive issues.

"It will indirectly erode public trust, and PKR may start to lose support if the allegations, as claimed by Rafizi (Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli), are indeed true," he told Sinar Harian on Sunday.

Previously, Rafizi, who is also the Pandan Member of Parliament, during the Hidupkan Idealisme Reformasi Dalam Ujian Kuasa (Hiruk) tour in Kelantan and Terengganu, reminded all parties to refrain from practicing money politics during the ongoing party election campaign.

According to the Economy Minister, any party in a government position cannot dismiss the risk of power abuse.

Meanwhile, Ariff Aizuddin believed that this year's PKR election is in a critical situation due to internal conflicts among several leaders attacking each other.

Additionally, he noted that the struggle for power was a contributing factor to the current situation, leading to increased factionalism among members.

"It is quite challenging to foster unity and embrace a magnanimous attitude in creating a healthy competitive environment.

"If PKR does not take any initiative to resolve this crisis, the party will face even greater difficulties in convincing the public during the next general election," he added.