KUALA LUMPUR: The upcoming contest for the PKR deputy presidency between Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli and Nurul Izzah Anwar is shaping up to be a fierce battle centred around grassroots sentiment, party loyalty, and the contentious issue of nepotism.
Analysts suggest that this sentiment may work in favour of the Pandan member of parliament, potentially helping him retain the position he secured in 2022 after defeating Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution.
International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst and ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute fellow Associate Professor Dr Syaza Shukri said the perception of nepotism surrounding Nurul Izzah‘s return could significantly undermine her chances.
“The optics of her contesting for a senior post in a party led by her father, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, may alienate certain segments of the membership and bolster Rafizi’s momentum in defending his position,” she said.
“While some may attempt to justify her candidacy, the issue of nepotism remains a major concern.”
Syaza added, “I’m not convinced that it will be enough to prevent her from winning, but it’s certainly the most significant obstacle she faces.”
She said that Rafizi’s extensive experience within the party — particularly his bold and often controversial exposés against political opponents during PKR‘s opposition years — could help solidify support from the grassroots and his loyal base, giving him a strong chance of retaining the deputy presidency.
Although Nurul Izzah, the eldest daughter of the party president, has received public endorsements from several PKR ministers and leaders, and is widely celebrated as Puteri Reformasi, Dr Syaza believes that while this may influence some delegates, Rafizi still holds a considerable advantage.
“I believe Rafizi still has a chance, but it’s a tough fight now, especially with the new election regulations involving delegate voting. The outcome is difficult to predict, as there is a loud chorus of support for Izzah, but I think Rafizi’s supporters remain solid.”
“However, if we’re talking about grassroots support, Rafizi’s backing has historically been stronger,” she added.
Meanwhile, Universiti Malaya senior lecturer in political science, public administration and development studies Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub said that Rafizi’s outspoken nature and strategic leadership alone might not be sufficient, as party members and leaders increasingly perceived Nurul Izzah as offering more to the party.
He said that the former Lembah Pantai MP had demonstrated greater emotional maturity and diligence in addressing dissatisfaction within the party — qualities her opponent had often been criticised for lacking.
“This was evident when Nurul Izzah did not express disappointment after losing the Permatang Pauh seat in the last general election, and instead continued to serve the party,” he said.
Tawfik added, “In fact, PKR members and leaders are increasingly looking for a successor to Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim — someone who embodies the original spirit of the party’s struggle, much like Anwar himself.”
He also said that it would be risky for Rafizi to assume he could retain the deputy presidency based on grassroots support alone.
“Rafizi must now strategise and consolidate his backing, especially as Nurul Izzah appears to have garnered support from several prominent party figures — support that could influence others.”
“I believe it will be difficult for Rafizi to win, and he is likely to lose, given the current political reality within PKR and the continuous wave of support Nurul Izzah is receiving from state leaders and party members at various levels,” he said.
“While political nostalgia is one thing, present-day reality is another. Rafizi risks defeat if he continues to rely on past sentiments as a guaranteed path to victory.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
