Anwar reveals Khalid to lead Kajang by-election campaign

(MM) – Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim will likely be appointed PKR’s election director for the upcoming Kajang by-election, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.

The Opposition Leader, who is contesting the state seat said the party leadership is currently discussing the matter and that the Selangor mentri besar is also aware of the plan.

“We are discussing and finalising matters. Tan Sri Khalid himself has said he wanted to lead this campaign to ensure Pakatan’s victory,” Anwar old The Malay Mail Onlinein an  interview at the PKR headquarters here.

“There is a likehood this will happen,” Anwar added.

The de facto PKR leader said state party leaders are backing Khalid to lead the campaign as the Selangor MB is well-versed with issues facing voters in Kajang.

Anwar said an announcement on the matter would made tonight when he and Khalid attend an event  in Kajang.

The move appears to be part of the PKR’s efforts to present a united front to voters, amid rumours of worsening ties between Anwar, Khalid and Azmin Ali.

Both Anwar and Khalid have been attending meet- and -greet sessions in Kajang together, while Azmin was present with them at an event  in Kariah mosque on Friday.

Anwar has also said he will explain tonight to Kajang voters the reason for contesting the state seat.

Pakatan Rakyat (PR) supporters have been demanding an explanation  why the former Kajang PKR state assemblymen Lee Chin Cheh resigned abruptly last week.

It is understood that Anwar plans to replace Khalid as Selangor mentri besar should he win the Kajang by-election.

Despite the latest developments, the Selangor government and Anwar have continued to deny that Khalid will be removed from his post as MB.

While popular with the general public, Khalid’s penchant for unilateral decision-making in administering the country’s wealthiest state is understood to be a source of dissatisfaction among PR leaders in the state.

PR currently holds 44 of the 56-seat Selangor state assembly, with PAS and DAP having 15 seats each, while PKR has 13 after Lee’s resignation.