In a Facebook post, Tian Chua acknowledged that the Kuala Langat MP was a PKR pioneer who had “sacrificed enormously and dedicated his life” towards the reform struggle.

“For more than two decades, he was part of the leadership team that built up a strong foundation for the party. It would be unfair to simply accuse him of being a traitor,” said the former Batu MP.

He also claimed that the Perikatan Nasional (PN) government was attempting to stay in power by splitting its rivals, but said such methods of “intimidation or enticement” would only cause more political instability.

Instead, he suggested for Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin to call on all political parties for “an inclusive consultation”, as everyone must be part of rebuilding the country.

“PN cannot rule along with a small clique while denying the voices of the majority. Political stability can only be achieved through national unity.

“Currently, absolute power is held by a group with no mandate. We have to unite to reject the politics of fragmentation,” he said.

Earlier today, Xavier announced his resignation as vice-president and member of PKR, saying he would continue to serve his constituency and support the current government as an independent MP.

His resignation comes after two other PKR elected representatives, Julau MP Larry Sng and Tebrau MP Steven Choong, quit the party last month and declared their support for Muhyiddin.

PKR secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution Ismail claimed that a “senior minister” had contacted Xavier to tell him to support PN or face serious consequences.

According to him, Xavier had told the leadership that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission had made him a “target” of a plethora of investigations, including the arrest of his political secretary and other acquaintances in relation to an ongoing case.