The conviction of PKR vice-president Rafizi Ramli will not weaken the party, said its deputy president Azmin Ali.

On the contrary, the Selangor menteri besar said, the court’s decision would enhance PKR’s strength and unity in its struggle.

Responding to a question, Azmin hoped the Rafizi would be able to overturn the conviction and focus on PKR’s preparation for the coming general election.

"Definitely, I want him freed from the charge," he said when met in Parliament.

This morning, Rafizi, who is also Pandan MP, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for breaching the Official Secrets Act.

The Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court allowed a stay of execution on the sentence, pending appeal.

Meanwhile, PKR Youth chief Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said the verdict is "disappointing" as Rafizi was standing up for "victimised" armed forces personnel.

He said subsequent statements by the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) and the auditor-general's report matched Rafizi's claims, based on the sealed documents.

"The government cannot continue to hide behind the excuse that something is 'secret', as a way to protect kleptocrats and those who rob the country.

"It is time the OSA is reviewed so it cannot be abused for personal interests. Laws should be used to protect the interest of the people, not unscrupulous administrators," he said in a statement.

Rafizi was found guilty of disclosing a classified document without authorisation at the Parliament lobby on March 28.

The classified document was page 98 of the auditor-general's report on 1MDB, which he was found guilty of possessing without authorisation, in breach of OSA.

He did so in an expose on delayed payment of armed forces personnel pensions and gratuities.

In a statement today, Rafizi said he did so to speak up for the retired armed forces personnel whose voices are not heard.

He is appealing the verdict at the High Court.