PKR has opted for compromise over confrontation in order to keep intact its Sabah flank, convulsed by a dispute over leadership that has threatened to split the party down the middle.

Party supremo Anwar Ibrahim said Jeffrey Gapari Kitingan has been appointed vice-president in charge of Sabah and Sarawak with responsibility for drawing up a master plan to develop the two states, and to prepare for the next general election.

Thamrin Jaini, named in preference to Jeffrey as Sabah chairperson two months ago, continues to head the state chapter with Christina Liew, an ally of Jeffrey, chosen as deputy.

NONE Anwar ( left ) said the changes were made in the spirit of inclusivity and in consultation with the leadership of the Sabah divisions.

"I recognise the unique circumstances under which Sabah and Sarawak joined the federation. As a nation it is regrettable that we have at times failed to live up to the spirit and ideals of the Malaysia Agreement of 1963 which outlined the rights of Sabah and Sarawak," Anwar told Malaysiakini .

"It is one of (PKR's) key objectives to restore the dignity and position of Sabah and Sarawak and uplift from poverty its diverse peoples. I therefore urge all parties to turn the page on divisiveness, pettiness and work together with a renewed commitment to unity and justice."

Contacted by phone, Jeffrey hailed the announcement, saying that Anwar has gone to "extraordinary lengths" to achieve a deal to unify disputatious factions in Sabah.

"He unified the opposition in preparation for the last general election and now he has done the same within one critical wing of his own party that was threatened with needless division," commented a hugely relieved Jeffrey.

He thanked Anwar for his commitment to the ideals and spirit of the Malaysia Agreement and emphasised his support for the party's agenda for change.

Fine balance

The new line-up strikes a fine balance between the contending factions in Sabah by including leaders allied to Thamrin and Jeffrey .

Kong Hong Ming, John Ghani and Awang Tengah Awang Amin have been named as vice-chairpersons.

NONE The peace deal promises to bring two months of tension and discord in Sabah PKR to an end.

It also enables the party to better prepare for state elections anticipated in Sarawak as early as the first quarter of next year, well ahead of its constitutionally due date in May 2011.

Jeffrey ( right) added that, given his added responsibility for Sarawak, the peace deal comes at an opportune time for him to consult adequately with the party's Sarawak cohort to draw up plans for the state polls.