When Walking Away Means Moving Forward

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 Two ministers. Two resignations. One clear message: even power comes with an expiry date.
Within hours of each other, Rafizi Ramli and Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad tendered their resignations from the cabinet following their defeats in PKR’s party elections held last week.
These were not forced exits. They were voluntary moves made in response to the voice of party members.
In a political culture where many hold on to positions for as long as possible, these resignations signal a rare moment of accountability and a shift toward political maturity in Malaysia.
ADSWhile the move may cause some temporary disruption in ministerial planning, the overall functioning of the government remains unaffected.
Power is a privilege, not an entitlement
Rather than signalling a crisis, these decisions highlight a principle that is often overlooked: leadership is a trust, not a lifetime entitlement.
By stepping aside after losing party confidence, both leaders have demonstrated political integrity. This is a democratic process working as it should.
Naturally, questions arise about what comes next.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has remained composed throughout the transition. There is no sense of panic.
Instead, he appears focused on maintaining discipline within the administration while navigating the realities of political change.
Speculation is inevitable. Yet the rakyat are reminded to stay grounded in facts.
Democracy is still functioning. This is a peaceful transition that would be difficult to imagine under many previous administrations.
The message is clear: political power is not above party mandate or public scrutiny.
Many believe that Rafizi and Nik Nazmi may continue to play important roles either within the party or in broader national efforts.
Their experience and contributions are not easily dismissed. While they no longer hold ministerial posts, they remain part of the reformist DNA that shaped PKR’s journey.
Nik Nazmi Nik AhmadADSTheir resignations also underscore another reality: PKR’s party elections are far from symbolic. Even high-ranking figures are not immune to challenge. Several MPs, ADUNs, ministers, and deputy ministers were voted out.
This is not a sign of crisis. It is a reminder that party democracy is active and real.
However, the key takeaway here is that power in Malaysia today is not permanent. It must be earned and re-earned. Leaders must remember that their authority is a responsibility, not a right.
Signal of stability
This political moment is unfolding while Malaysia holds the Asean chair. The country is hosting leaders from across Asia amid global tensions from US trade tariffs and economic instability to wars and humanitarian crises.
The fact that our political system can handle internal change calmly strengthens Malaysia’s image on the world stage.
The relationship between political stability and economic growth cannot be overstated. Investors and businesses prefer an environment where transitions do not threaten national direction.
Malaysia’s ability to navigate this moment without major disruption sends a powerful message of maturity and strength.
Ultimately, this is not a story of downfall. It is a story of transition about how a party and a government respond when their internal landscape shifts.
What comes next will define not only PKR’s future but also the credibility of the reform agenda it has long championed.
For now, there is no collapse. No vacuum. Just a recalibration of roles.
If managed wisely, it could be the reset that PKR and the federal coalition government need to refocus and deliver on the promises made to the rakyat.
The public may not agree with everything Rafizi and Nik Nazmi did in office. But many will respect how they left with grace, discipline, and without creating chaos.
Sometimes, real leadership speaks loudest when it exits quietly. - Mkini
MAHATHIR MOHD RAIS is a former Federal Territories Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional secretary.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.

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