Melaka: PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today granted a full mandate to vice-president Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, allowing him to undertake the responsibilities of the party's deputy president. This decision comes as Nurul Izzah Anwar, the incumbent, takes a temporary leave of absence.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar acknowledged that this new role might add pressure on Saifuddin Nasution, who is currently serving as the Home Minister. However, Anwar expressed confidence in Saifuddin Nasution's loyalty and understanding of the party's dynamics to effectively manage the duties of the deputy president. During his closing remarks at the PKR National Congress 2026 held at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Ayer Keroh, Anwar urged the entire Keadilan machinery to extend their unwavering support to Saifuddin Nasution.
On August 6, PKR Information Chief Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil had announced that the party's Central Leadership Council (MPP) had agreed for Saifuddin Nasution to temporarily assume the deputy president's duties. This decision was made to accommodate Nurul Izzah's temporary leave.
Additionally, Anwar announced the appointments of other key figures within the party. Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari has been named the party's election director, while Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz will serve as a coordinator in the Prime Minister's Office.
Regarding leadership in Negeri Sembilan, Anwar directed Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun to concentrate on his responsibilities as vice-president and to focus on training new PKR members. Anwar emphasized that Aminuddin's extensive experience is crucial for advancing the party's cadre development agenda across various levels.
Furthermore, Anwar addressed concerns from six Negeri Sembilan PKR division chiefs who called for a review of Aminuddin's position as chairman of the Negeri Sembilan PKR State Leadership Council. Anwar stated that the PKR's defeat in the Negeri Sembilan state election on August 1 should not be attributed solely to Aminuddin but should be acknowledged as a collective responsibility.
"So, let us accept this outcome and correct the mistakes. Hopefully, we can improve (the party's performance) again," Anwar concluded.