PKR Deputy President: Rafizi, Nurul Izzah and a divided party
The role was seen as crucial in supporting President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the party navigates toward the 16th General Election (GE16).
SHAH ALAM - As PKR heads into its 2025 Central Leadership Election this weekend, intense debate surrounds the race for the party’s Deputy President position.
The role was seen as crucial in supporting President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the party navigates toward the 16th General Election (GE16).
Speculation has arisen regarding the potential resignation of current Deputy President Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.
Reports indicated that Rafizi expressed his intention to step down during a meeting with his supporters on April 23.
In response, PKR Titiwangsa Division Chief Syed Badli Shah Syed Osman has proposed that Pakatan Harapan (PH) Secretary-General Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail be given an uncontested path to the Deputy Presidency.
He believes this would maintain party stability and allow Saifuddin, who is also the Home Minister, to play a significant role alongside Anwar.
However, PKR Sabah Deputy Communications Director Fekirie Gobet viewed this suggestion as a potential threat to the party's unity, which is renowned for its 'Reformasi' ethos.
Amid these developments, Nurul Izzah Anwar's name has surfaced as a potential candidate for the Deputy President role.
PKR Tapah Division Chief Azam Afandi endorsed her candidacy, highlighting her contributions as a human rights activist and advocate for institutional reforms.
Azam believes Nurul Izzah can bring moderation, principled leadership and progressive thinking to the party.
Johor's Deputy Chief of the PKR Youth Wing (AMK), Muhammad Faezuddin Mohd Puad also approved Nurul Izzah, pointing out that her presence would invigorate the party's internal democracy by offering grassroots members a fresh choice.
Five PKR division chiefs from Melaka, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin (Hang Tuah Jaya), Mohd Khuzaire Mohd Kamal Kannan (Alor Gajah), Azlan Osman (Tangga Batu), Jagatheason Ramiah (Jasin) and Md Yusoff Ahmad (Kota Melaka), have expressed their support for Nurul Izzah.
Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) political analyst Dr Ariff Aizuddin Azlan believes that Rafizi still has a strong chance of retaining his position, citing his close rapport with grassroots members and extensive political experience.
With the nomination period approaching, the party awaits to see who will emerge as Anwar's deputy in the lead-up to GE16.
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