Rafizi, who is defending his deputy presidency at the party polls, entered the hall moments after PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, with whom he was later seen sharing a word.

Earlier today, Anwar said he expected Rafizi to attend the annual congress despite speculation of a no-show amid heightening party tension.

Rafizi recently broke tradition by declining to officiate the party’s Youth and Wanita congress, citing principles over politics.

On Monday, he said his decision to skip the congress stemmed from a breach of party protocol after the Sabah PKR election machinery launch was allegedly announced without prior discussion by the party’s political bureau or central leadership council.

The events were instead officiated by PKR secretary-general Fuziah Salleh.

Tonight’s congress was also attended by unity government leaders including DAP secretary-general Loke Siew Fook, Amanah president Mohamad Sabu, Barisan Nasional secretary-general Zambry Abdul Kadir, and Upko president Ewon Benedick.