PKR has denied allegations that it is using khalwat (close proximity) cases as a political weapon to undermine rival leaders, insisting that personal matters are not part of its political strategy.
PKR vice-president Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the party had never discussed or arranged any attempt to trap political opponents, either openly or secretly.
“We have better things to do than set up khalwat traps.
“It has never been discussed or arranged, either secretly or openly, to trap political opponents. That is not our style,” he said after officiating the Majlis Semarak Kasih with Yayasan Selangor students today.
Yesterday, the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais) detained a former minister and political leader over alleged khalwat with a woman, believed to be the founder of a non-governmental organisation, in Petaling Jaya.
Earlier today, Bersama co-founder Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad confirmed that he was among two people detained by Jais on suspicion of khalwat on Oct 15.
Nik Nazmi said he regretted his lapse in judgment, admitting that he was with a woman when Jais officers arrived at the location.
He also apologised to his wife, family and others affected by the incident, adding that he would fully cooperate with any legal process.
Meanwhile, Amirudin, who is also Pakatan Harapan’s election strategy director, said the coalition was finalising several decisions ahead of the Melaka state election.
He said a clearer direction was expected within a week, with potential candidates currently undergoing the final stages of screening.
“We will offer good candidates, who are currently in the final screening stages,” he said.
Amirudin added that PKR would prioritise candidates committed to serving the community and who had relevant experience.
In some constituencies, the party also intends to give candidates an opportunity to gain experience, particularly in seats where its baseline support is lower, as part of a long-term strategy for PKR and PH.
On possible cooperation with Bersatu, Amirudin said discussions had yet to be finalised, with a decision expected soon.
PKR has previously confirmed that it will contest nine seats in the Melaka state election.
Its secretary-general, Fuziah Salleh, said PH would contest more seats overall if PKR fielded candidates in nine constituencies.
