The division’s deputy chief, Anwar Karison, said that Saifuddin, the Pakatan Harapan secretary-general, had demonstrated his leadership abilities not only in the party, but also as a minister.

Saifuddin, who stepped down as PKR secretary-general in September, is the home minister.

“He is experienced, principled, and loyal to the party as well as committed to championing the ‘reformasi’ cause.

“We believe that a combination of party president Anwar Ibrahim and Saifuddin would ensure that PKR remains strong and able to withstand political challenges as well as the upcoming general election,” he said in a statement.

Anwar Karison also said that Saifuddin was more “neutral” and less controversial, which would allow him to reduce the rifts in the party.

He urged all members and divisions to back Saifuddin’s candidacy.

Yesterday, Titiwangsa PKR chief Syed Badli Shah Syed Osman called on PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli to make way for Saifuddin to take over as the party’s number two.

In March, Rafizi said he would defend the PKR deputy presidency, a post he was elected to in 2022 after defeating Saifuddin with a landslide 16,668-vote majority.

Numerous PKR divisional leaders have also voiced their support for vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar to contest the deputy president’s post.

It was reported that Saifuddin had recently met Anwar Ibrahim and Rafizi about his future in the party.