JOHOR BAHRU – Former PKR Secretary-General Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail became visibly emotional as he spoke about Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli following Rafizi’s loss in the party’s Deputy President race to Nurul Izzah Anwar.
At the closing session of the PKR National Congress 2025 today, Saifuddin - who is the Home Minister and Pakatan Harapan secretariat chief - described Rafizi as one of the party’s most valuable talents and expressed fear that PKR could lose his leadership.
During his speech to party delegates, Saifuddin shared a deeply personal moment, revealing that he personally accompanied Rafizi to his car after the official election results were announced yesterday.
“I walked Rafizi to his car after the election ended yesterday, and we embraced and we apologised to each other,” he said as he struggled to hold back his emotions.
Saifuddin also expressed concern about the party’s future leadership without figures like Rafizi.
“I fear losing a good leader like Rafizi,” he added.
Saifuddin recalled their early relationship: “When I was Deputy Youth Chief of Umno, Rafizi was studying in London and returned after 10 years. I welcomed him back to Johor Bahru, and we discussed his future before he joined Petronas. Afraid of losing his potential, I appointed him as speechwriter when I was in Selangor. Now, I fear losing his leadership abilities.”
Despite Rafizi’s disappointment, the Economic Minister indicated he would remain in PKR and continue championing reformist ideals.
Saifuddin acknowledged differences between himself and Rafizi, especially regarding the rapid rise of new members within the party.
“During the campaign, Rafizi said he could not accept if President Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim gave opportunities to new members who rose quickly within PKR in a short time.
“The contest for Deputy President between Rafizi and Nurul Izzah was intense. I sat with both for hours to understand their views and reported back to the President. We must safeguard talents like Rafizi, even if personalities differ,” he said.
He also urged Anwar to unite the party and console those wounded by the election.
“Datuk Seri is not only Nurul Izzah’s father but the father to all of us. Please comfort those who are hurt, so the party remains strong heading into the Sabah state election and the 16th General Election.”
Addressing Nurul Izzah, Saifuddin stressed the importance of her leadership role: “Answer the first question — ‘what difference will you make when given the mandate, and how will you differ from previous leaders?’ There is no time to rest. Sabah’s election awaits; organise the party and reduce conflicts that weaken us.”
He highlighted growing grassroots support from volunteers nationwide, who have travelled far with hopes for change and stability.
Saifuddin ended by reminding newly elected leaders of their responsibility: “This is not about position alone but the hopes of the people we represent.” - May 24, 2025
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