Khalid to run for PKR deputy presidency, aide confirms

(MM) – In an added twist to the ongoing drama in Selangor, it has been confirmed that Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim will run for the PKR deputy presidency during next month’s party polls, possibly against rival Azmin Ali.

Khalid’s political secretary Azman Abidin confirmed the matter with The Malay Mail Online when contacted this evening.

The Selangor mentri besar is also scheduled to hold a special dinner tonight where it is speculated that he will announce his bid.

“It is a dinner where PKR division chiefs have been invited. Not sure whether an announcement is going to be made tonight, but he is definitely contesting the deputy post,” Azman said.

Khalid previously stated an interest in contesting a top PKR post, saying during an interview with The Malay Mail Online that he can “add value” to the current leadership.

Khalid was Selangor PKR chairman before being succeeded by PKR deputy president Azmin Ali.

The second-term mentri besar’s tendency to unilaterally make decisions in administering the country’s wealthiest state has stirred some dissatisfaction among Pakatan Rakyat (PR) leaders, especially PKR leaders in Selangor.

Khalid’s rivalry with Azmin for control of Selangor has been chronicled in local news reports, and is expected to manifest during the party’s upcoming elections.

The nomination date for all top PKR posts will be on March 29, while nominations for divisional posts will be from April 4 to April 13.

Voting will begin on April 25 and end on May 11, and the results will be announced either on May 12 or May 13.

PKR recently amended its election rules to ensure a clean and healthy polls this May.

Under the new rules, individuals can now nominate themselves, instead of relying on proposals from the divisions. The duration for the voting process will also be shorter than previously.