The home minister was asked to comment on the slew of prominent incumbent PKR divisional leaders who were knocked out over the last two weekends as members elected lesser-known figures in the party’s divisional polls.

PKR vice-presidents Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad and K Saraswathy, PKR Youth chief Adam Adli, and several MPs were among those who lost.

“It’s not that they lost – they just didn’t get enough votes,” Saifuddin told a press conference after attending the home ministry’s monthly assembly with staff.

“Just because someone is a minister or deputy minister, or they’re part of the top leadership, it doesn’t mean they are guaranteed victory. That’s not how it works.”

Saifuddin also said that losing should not be equated with being cast aside or left out, citing his own experience in this regard.

“I’ve lost a lot of times, but I’m still here,” he said.

“As long as you continue to serve the party and remain loyal, the leadership will still give you a place (in the party).”

Earlier today, FMT quoted a senior PKR assemblyman dismissing talk of factionalism in the party’s divisional elections, attributing the defeats of several senior leaders to complacency rather than internal power struggles.

However, another senior PKR MP told FMT that most of those who lost had ties to deputy PKR president Rafizi Ramli’s “Ayuh Malaysia” platform.

The party will hold a special central leadership council meeting tomorrow to address any grievances or dissatisfaction arising from the party elections.

Saifuddin also said he had met Rafizi yesterday to discuss party developments, and that the meeting reflected a mutual understanding of the party’s democratic exercise.

“I don’t want to create a dichotomy between Saifuddin and Rafizi. As the prime minister (Anwar Ibrahim) mentioned, everyone is a party member,” he added.

On whether he would challenge Rafizi for the role of deputy president, Saifuddin said he had yet to decide.

“If I do, I’ll call for a press conference,” he said.