Rafizi Ramli’s defeat in the contest for the PKR deputy president’s post is not the end of his political career if the Pandan MP can recalibrate his strategy, says an analyst.
Describing the outcome as a “sign of changing tides”, Awang Azman Pawi believes Rafizi remains a key figure in Malaysian politics despite the loss.
“He is still influential, respected and possesses a broad grassroots network,” said the academic, who noted Rafizi’s unique strengths in data analysis and intellectual discourse.
“He should be like a snake that slithers through the roots but never loses its venom,” he said, citing a Malay proverb.
However, the defeat sheds light on several underlying currents within PKR. Chief among them is the decline in support from his base, particularly among pro-Rafizi factions who are disheartened by the results.
“Rafizi was once at his peak when ‘data reform’ was the core of his movement. However, now he is perhaps seen as being out of touch with the sentiments of the party’s grassroots,” Awang Azman said.
Critics have pointed to Rafizi’s communication style, which some perceive as being elitist or disconnected, as a potential reason for the shift in support.
His forthright stance on issues relating to both the party and the unity government may have inadvertently painted the economy minister as being “outside the collective”, despite intentions aimed at internal reform.
Prior to the election, he vowed to resign as economy minister if he failed to be re-elected as PKR deputy president in the party elections.
Rafizi said it would be a relief if he was no longer part of the Cabinet as it would mean having more time and freedom to speak out on various issues.
Merdeka Center’s Ibrahim Suffian also dismissed suggestions that Rafizi’s loss to Nurul Izzah Anwar signals the end of his political journey.
“I don’t think it’s the end of the road for Rafizi. He still commands significant support within the party.
“I believe he could very well complement Nurul Izzah in the party’s preparations for the next general election (GE16) and continue to play a constructive role in the future.”
Another analyst, James Chin also said Rafizi’s career is far from over – but cautioned that his next move will be critical.
“It is not the end of the road for Rafizi,” Chin stated.
“It depends on what he chooses to do now. If he throws a tantrum and resigns from everything, then it would be very, very bad.”
