Saifuddin was expected to challenge for the deputy president’s post, which is currently held by Rafizi Ramli.

An aide, Omar Mokhtar Manap, said Saifuddin, who is Pakatan Harapan secretary-general, reached the decision not to contest any posts after discussions with several parties, including PKR’s top leadership.

“His message is for all of us to remain steadfast on the path of struggle, to work hard in strengthening the party and to prioritise two key goals: winning the 16th general election and ensuring Anwar Ibrahim serves a second term as prime minister,” Omar said.

His statement was issued just hours before nominations for PKR’s central leadership positions close at midnight.

So far, the only two contenders for the deputy president’s post are Rafizi and Nurul Izzah Anwar, while Anwar is the sole registered candidate for the PKR presidency and is expected to retain the post uncontested.

Saifuddin had been reticent on whether he would contest the PKR central leadership elections on May 23. Last Sunday, he said he had held lengthy discussions with Rafizi as well as several meetings with Anwar on whether to contest.

Earlier today, a PKR leader dismissed a news report claiming that Saifuddin had been advised to drop out of the race for the deputy presidency.

“No such directive was given to anyone, including Saifuddin,” the highly placed source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told FMT.

The source was responding to an article in Sin Chew Daily which claimed that Saifuddin had been advised to step aside and make way for Nurul Izzah, who is Anwar’s oldest daughter.