Azmin replaces Khalid as S'gor PKR chief

PKR vice-president Azmin Ali will replace Khalid Ibrahim as the party Selangor chief, in an apparent compromise to make peace between the duo.

It is no secret that Azmin has been at odds with the Selangor menteri besar, due to the latter’s corporate style which is not accompanied by sufficient political savvy.

Azmin ( left ) is rumoured to be the leader of the G15 - a group of PKR MPs from various states - who are out to stage a coup to force Khalid to step down.

It remains to be seen whether Azmin's new portfolio was designed as a check-and-balance apparatus or become his stepping stone towards helming the menteri besar's post.

Meanwhile, Zaid Ibrahim will replace Azmin as Federal Territories PKR chief. The minor reshuffle in party leadership was decided at the party national retreat in Shah Alam today. 

Khalid admits weaknesses

Party president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail announced this during a press conference after chairing the party’s central leadership council meeting.

The three-hour meeting was meant to decide on recommendations made by working groups during the two-day retreat which concluded today.

“The new appointments are effective immediately,” said Wan Azizah, who as party president has sole prerogative over such positions.

PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim told the press conference that Khalid was replaced as Selangor party chief in order to allow him to concentrate on the state administration.

"Khalid had said that he wanted to concentrate on developmental issues in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur and he asked not to be burdened by too much party duties," explained Anwar.

Speaking to reporters later, Khalid welcomed the move, conceding that his corporate expertise was not enough to helm Selangor PKR effectively.

"I am not that good in politics, so I will focus on (state) investments (and development)," he said.

Badrul Amin new comm head

Other than the surprise departure of Khalid as state party chief, Anwar also announced the placement of three party-appointed officers in the menteri besar's office.

"This is to help state communications efforts," Anwar said.

Among the three is Sabak Bernam PKR chief Badrul Amin Baharum ( left ) who will be the communications director based out of the MB's office and two other special officers.

Badrul Amin is a former Internal Security Act detainee, a firebrand cleric and a reputable orator.

It is believed that his appointment as communications director was aimed at helping PKR’s propaganda efforts among rural Malays, who are still inclined towards the BN.

Quizzed on whether he would run for party presidency during the upcoming party elections, Anwar looked sheepishly at his wife Wan Azizah, and skirted the question.

“I don’t have the heart to,” he said jokingly.

"He might not even win," retorted PKR deputy president Syed Hussin Ali.