Lobbying begins, support for Nurul Izzah to challenge Rafizi as PKR No 2

Summary

• Perak PKR info chief Azam Afandi endorses Nurul Izzah Anwar to contest for PKR deputy president, against incumbent Rafizi Ramli.

• Azam cites the reformist vision and leadership qualities of the party’s vice-president.

• Nominations for the PKR central leadership election will open soon, and it is speculated Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail is a possible contender for the party’s No 2 post.

Lobbying for PKR’s number two post has gained momentum with Perak PKR information chief Azam Afandi declaring his open support for party vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar to contest against incumbent Rafizi Ramli.

Azam, who is also Tapah PKR division chief, said his endorsement of Nurul Izzah - the eldest daughter of PKR president and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim - goes beyond personality or political legacy.

“In our efforts to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the party’s struggle in an increasingly complex future, it is both timely and necessary to prepare a leadership line-up capable of upholding reformist values, driving renewal, and elevating the people’s aspirations.

“In line with this, and with a deep sense of responsibility and awareness of this struggle’s mandate, I wish to express my open support and full confidence in Nurul Izzah to offer herself and be endorsed as a candidate for the position of PKR deputy president for the 2025–2028 term,” he said in a statement.

“Her nomination is not merely about personality, nor is it simply a matter of legacy. It is about the future of PKR as a party that remains relevant and trusted by the people.”

Nurul Izzah, who has thus far indicated plans to defend her vice-president post, recently responded to critics by affirming that the party’s iconic “reformasi” battle cry, popularised by her father, remains alive - though it demands patience and perseverance to be fully realised.

So far, no candidate has publicly announced a bid to challenge Rafizi, with nominations for PKR’s central leadership election opening in less than a week.

Earlier today, Titiwangsa PKR division chief Syed Badli Shah Syed Osman called on Rafizi “to make way” for Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail - widely speculated to be eyeing the deputy presidency - to step in.

Saifuddin, who is also Pakatan Harapan secretary-general, has so far confirmed having several meetings with both Anwar and Rafizi.

However, Saifuddin has yet to declare his candidacy, saying he will make “an official announcement within a reasonable time”.

‘Qualities of moderation, progressive thinking’

In showing support for Nurul Izzah, Azam described the former MP as an experienced leader with a strong record of principle and dedication to the party’s cause.

“I believe Nurul Izzah possesses the qualities of moderation, principled resolve, and progressive thinking that are vital in revitalising the party.

“She is also trusted to further strengthen the synergy between PKR and its partners in government, for the sake of national stability and the people’s well-being.

“On this basis, with a full sense of duty towards the mandate of our struggle and the future of the party, I stand firmly in support of Nurul Izzah as a candidate for the deputy president,” he said.

Expressing similar sentiments, Johor PKR Youth deputy chief Faezuddin Puad said the proposal to elevate Nurul Izzah’s party position is a timely step not only in terms of her political experience and qualification, but also from the perspective of gender inclusivity.

“PKR has also championed women’s empowerment, and the nomination of a high-calibre female figure like Nurul Izzah is in line with this spirit.

“The party needs a combination of new and seasoned energy, youthful idealism and the wisdom of experience.

“Nurul Izzah represents this blend with great credibility,” said the Pulai PKR division chief in a statement today.

Faezuddin added that Nurul Izzah’s potential inclusion in the party’s deputy presidency race will demonstrate PKR’s celebration of differing views while upholding the spirit of democracy and providing a space for healthy competition.

Further support

Kelantan PKR deputy chief Shukri Ishak also recorded his support for Nurul Izzah’s probable candidacy.

However, he said the grassroots members will determine the final decision of support.

Denying claims that the party is facing a “leadership vacuum”, he asserted that he has no opposition to others casting their bid for the party’s number two position.

Nurul Izzah recently retained her position as Permatang Pauh division chief uncontested, and she also serves as the Penang PKR chairperson.

Nominations for PKR’s central leadership election will take place on May 8 and 9, while polling is scheduled for May 23 and 24 during the PKR National Congress.

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