The Amanah election director explained that among the factors that could sway fence-sitters when they go to the polls was that the MB was backing its candidate Azhar Abdul Shukur.

Dzulkefly said this was especially so in Selangor’s case, where the PKR-led government was perceived to be “in two minds” as PAS was part of the state administration.

PKR’s relationship with PAS in the Selangor government is somewhat awkward as the Islamist party has severed ties with fellow ally DAP, which also has representatives in the state’s administration.

Azmin’s decision to make an appearance, Dzulkefly opined, would show that Amanah had Keadilan’s “undivided support”.

“Azmin’s categorical support of our candidate is loud and clear. I believe fence-sitters who are waiting for a clear signal from the MB would be in a better position to decide,” he told FMT.

Prior to this, speculation was rife that the Gombak lawmaker’s absence was due to the break down in talks with PAS over seat allocations for both the the Sungai Besar and Kuala Kangsar by-elections.

Before the candidates were announced, Azmin was a regular in Sungai Besar and held several events in the constituency.

Azmin’s absence later became fodder for Barisan Nasional, with Umno Youth Chief Khairy Jamaluddin claiming that the former’s no show meant that the Pakatan Harapan candidate did not have Azmin’s blessing.

PKR Vice-President Nurul Izzah, however, said Azmin had been busy with “state matters” and most PKR leaders were already on the ground to campaign.