PKR Youth chief Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, 36, today announced his bid for one of the four vice-president's posts in the party's coming elections.

shamsul iskandar pc 160910 He said he decided to move up the ranks as the time had come for youths to play a greater role in promoting democratisation in PKR.

"I feel it is time for the youth to move up so that their ideals are not ignored at the highest level," he said at a press conference in Kg Baru, Kuala Lumpur.

Shamsul pointed out that it was high time that both the youth and women were represented at the vice-president's level, as both groups had proved themselves in March 2008 general election.

If there is not even one vice-president representing the hopes and aspirations of the youths, it would be perceived as if the party does not provide them with any opportunity when that is not the case.

"As the last general election showed, many of our youths were given a chance, regardless of experience. They were successful and have not embarrassed us.

"They are serving as MPs and state assemblypersons, and I must stress that no youth member has defected," Shamsul said.

'Will support anyone who needs it'

Also present were supreme council member Rafizi Ramli, Wanita wing representative Hasna Hashim, who stood in for Wanita chief Zuraidah Kamaruddin, and Youth wing representatives from all states except Sabah and Sarawak

Notably absent were supreme council member Badrul Hisham Shaharin, better known as Chegubard, and Parit Sulong division youth chief Hasmi Hashim.

The media invitation for Shamsul's press conference had stated that both Badrul and Hasmi, who along with Rafizi are expected to contest the national youth chief's post, would be present.

Shamsul sidestepped questions on the significance of their absence, saying that declarations of support would eventually count for little in direct elections.

He noted that even if he declared support for any of the three Youth chief hopefuls, it would be pointless if they could not win over the members’ votes.

Shamsul was also evasive when asked which candidate he favoured, saying that he would have to "discuss" it with them.

"As you can see, Rafizi is here. Chegubard and Hasmi promised they would come... so I think I have their support and if they want my support, then I'll give them my support," he said.

 

PKR's 218 divisions will hold two separate meetings - the first to elect divisional leaders beginning this weekend, and a second meeting to vote for 26 supreme council members as well as president, deputy president and four vice-presidents.

The divisions will vote for top national leaders over four weekends from Oct 29 to Nov 21.