The sting of betrayal cut deep for Rafizi in PKR polls
The sting of betrayal cut deep for Rafizi Ramli, a man who had poured 27 years into PKR, driven by an ideal of a multiracial, progressive Malaysia. “I was deeply moved when a few young party members shed tears, pleading with me not to walk away from PKR despite the sting of betrayal,” he wrote, reflecting on the bitter outcome of a recent party election. Despite the resounding defeat, Rafizi’s gratitude for the “average Malaysians” who amplified his campaign echoed louder than the loss. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much, only Allah can repay your kindness,” he declared.
PKR polls
His journey began with the reformasi movement, before PKR’s inception, fueled by a belief in democratic competition to curb corruption and foster merit. Rafizi’s sacrifices were immense: abandoning a corporate career at Anwar Ibrahim’s request, serving as Chief of Staff at the Selangor Economic Advisory Office, and enduring 16 court cases—seven criminal, nine civil—for exposing scandals like 1MDB. “I have probably spent more time in court than the average lawyer,” he quipped, recalling a three-year suspended sentence under the Official Secrets Act.
Great relief after betrayal
Yet, the defeat brought relief. “I feel a great deal of relief that I can return to living a private life, away from the shenanigans of the corridors of power,” he admitted. Rafizi’s vision transcended personal ambition or public office. “I joined PKR because of the promise of this ideal. I did not join for ministerial positions,” he emphasized, underscoring that PKR’s relevance outlives any leader. Despite disillusionment among supporters, he urged resilience: “We must trust the process. Allah knows best what is good for us.”
With newfound time, Rafizi vowed to engage more with everyday Malaysians, undeterred by obstacles. “For every problem, there are multiple solutions,” he affirmed, his idealism unshaken. The hope he saw in tearful young members fueled his resolve: “There is hope after all.”