“In Selangor, we have been providing opportunities in education and in economy for the youth to enjoy the benefit of development,” said Khalid in his welcoming remarks at the PKR annual national congress, in an apparent reply to PKR Youth delegates who claimed that they have been sidelined by the government.
He warned party members to refrain from corrupt practices which he said was the norm in a BN administration.
“It is indeed very unfortunate if there are members or PKR supporters who reacted negatively for not being awarded projects in Pakatan-led governments,” said Khalid.
“We must understand the PKR’s aspiration, philosophy and policies in rejecting corruption and in upholding justice regardless of race and background,” he added.
Khalid said he understands that some party members used to be members of BN parties but urged them to cleanse themselves of corrupt practices.
“Some of us, maybe most of us, were affiliated to parties that practice corruption, cronyism and nepotism. But since we have joined PKR, it is appropriate to uphold the party’s principles and struggle,” said Khalid.
Yesterday, several PKR Youth delegates expressed their unhappiness with PR-led governments, claiming that they were being sidelined in government administration.
Khalid, who is facing a revolt from Pas who seek to impose strict Islamic rules in the administration of Selangor, blamed the mainstream media for their consistent attack against his administration.
He claimed that the relationship between the Pakatan Rakyat parties is at its best.
“Outsiders, especially Umno, continue their attack against Pakatan Rakyat, implying that the coalition is plagued with infighting,” said Khalid.
He added that despite various measures implemented by the state to benefit the people, the media have not been fair to his administration.
Khalid also said the state would continue to fight for a minimum wage of RM1,500 a month and hoped to achieve the target by 2012.
Khalid, who joined the party in 2006, reminded the delegates how the party was forced to hold the congress in private property in the past due to alleged intimidation by the authorities.
The PKR congress last year was held at an independent Chinese school in Seremban.
