As PKR’s internal elections approach, Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli has confirmed his intention to defend his position as the party's deputy president. His announcement comes at a time when support appears to be steadily growing for another prominent figure within the party — Nurul Izzah Anwar.
Rafizi expressed openness to the competitive nature of the election, acknowledging that both Nurul Izzah, a PKR vice president, and Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, the PH coalition’s secretary-general, have shown interest in vying for the post. He noted that regardless of the outcome, he remains committed to the party, either in a formal leadership role or as a dedicated grassroots activist.
Meanwhile, calls for change have gained traction within the party, particularly from its younger members. In Melaka, five out of six PKR youth wing chiefs have publicly backed Nurul Izzah for the deputy presidency. These include leaders from Tangga Batu, Hang Tuah Jaya, Alor Gajah, Jasin, and Masjid Tanah, who collectively believe that her experience and leadership credentials could help unify the party and infuse it with new energy.
The group highlighted Nurul Izzah’s past roles in PKR and her proven track record in party leadership as reasons for their endorsement. They also emphasized the historic nature of her potential candidacy, pointing out that the deputy president post has never been held by a woman — a change they feel is long overdue, especially with a leader of her caliber in the running.
However, the rising enthusiasm around Nurul Izzah’s potential candidacy has not gone without scrutiny. Political observer and former Penang deputy chief minister Prof Ramasamy Palanisamy has cast doubts on the spontaneity of the movement backing her. He suggested that the support she is receiving seems highly coordinated, implying it may be part of a larger strategic maneuver rather than a grassroots-driven initiative. He also alluded to Rafizi possibly being a placeholder for her ascendancy within the party hierarchy.
As PKR gears up for a pivotal election, the competition for its second-highest post is shaping into more than just a leadership contest — it is becoming a litmus test for the party’s direction, values, and readiness to embrace change. Whether the voters opt for continuity under Rafizi or new energy with Nurul Izzah, the outcome is likely to have lasting implications.
Information Source: Focus Malaysia
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