“I still believe that PKR is the channel we would like to represent us in the new government at this point in time.

“I joined PKR many years back because I believe it is a matter of policy to fight for justice for all races in Malaysia. I still believe this is the best option for now,” The Star quoted him as telling his supporters upon arriving at the Kuching International Airport from Miri today.

According to the report, the crowd, dressed in traditional attire, held banners to show that they wanted Baru to continue as the state PKR chairman.

There is talk that he may be replaced by Julau PKR division chief Larry Sng.

Baru welcomed PKR president Anwar Ibrahim’s statement on Nov 23 that the appointment of the Sarawak PKR chairman would be made in accordance with the party’s constitution.

Baru noted that the PKR constitution provided that Sabah and Sarawak had autonomy to decide on their respective chairmen.

“It is not correct to say that this is the prerogative of the president, but it is according to the provision where you must consult all the division chairmen of Sarawak.

“That is very clear and has been done before, so we will not depart from that,” Baru was quoted as saying.

He called for party unity after saying there were “some elements” out to divide PKR.

Asked to elaborate, the Star reported, Baru said certain people were trying to “divert” from what the party had done all along, including in the appointment of the state chairman.