I think Zuraida Kamaruddin of PKR should be more forthright in coming up with reasons why she prefers a woman candidate to stand in the upcoming Rantau by-election. Her proposal looks very much like a red herring to me.

First, why was she trying to pre-empt everybody? Dr Streram Sinnasamy was a candidate nominated by the party to stand in Rantau during the 14th general election. Why is he suddenly not wanted any more? What did he do to deserve such a snub?

He fought hard during nomination day when he was prevented from submitting his papers and he subsequently petitioned the courts to declare the election result void. Surely, he deserves some respect for this.

Streram represents not only the grassroots but also a multiracial and multicultural Malaysia. Is this less important than women’s representation?

In what significant way is the lack of women’s representation in Negeri Sembilan a critical issue? Sometimes, I think we cite “women’s representation” to a ridiculous level out of our own personal motives.

I am prepared to face the backlash from women on this. If Zuraida is replaced by a man in the Cabinet as housing and local government minister tomorrow, I don’t think women in this country will suffer in any significant way.

I admit I am a novice in politics, if not a simpleton. But I still want to say this: I believe the more senior leaders in PKR and PH should be calling the shots for the candidate for Rantau.

The protracted contest in PKR is really unfortunate although it is supposed to be democracy at work.

I really wish that Anwar Ibrahim, Mohamed Azmin Ali and Rafizi Ramli can work together as a team and end the proxy war immediately.

Sometimes, it is the minor leaders within the party who are adding fuel to fire.

In any party contest, the winner should not take all and the loser lose all. I hope both Azmin and Rafizi can co-exist.

In this regard, I think many recognise the contributions, capabilities and sacrifices of Rafizi especially before and during the 14th general election. It is time to show some appreciation for what he has done.

Let’s not use women’s representation as a spurious argument to sideline Streram or Rafizi.

If indeed Streram must give way, I would prefer Rafizi be given the opportunity to contest.

TK Chua is an FMT reader.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.