Kuala Lampur, Aug. 9 -- There is a particular tragedy that belongs to reformist parties. They are born because something is wrong. They gather people who are angry, excluded or simply tired of being told that change is impossible.

They speak of justice, institutions, dignity and a different kind of politics.

Then, one day, they win. And, that is when the real trouble begins.

Reformist parties around the world weaken for surprisingly similar reasons. The paradox is that the closer they get to power, the harder it becomes to remain reformist.

Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) is Malaysia's clearest example of this dilemma.

Its story cannot be separated from Reformasi, the movement that erupted after Anwar Ibrahim was dismissed as deputy prim...