PETALING JAYA: Incumbent PKR deputy president Azmin Ali has announced that he will defend his post in the upcoming party election, making it a six-way contest.
Azmin, who made a grand entrance to the PKR headquarters, filed his nomination papers a few minutes before the deadline, which was at 5pm.
His candidacy also put to rest intense speculations that he would go for presidency.
When asked why he chose to confirm his candidacy at the last minute, the long-term Gombak MP said he had to consult his colleagues over the last few days.
"Today, I had a long discussion with (PKR de-facto leader) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim before we finally decided that I retain my deputy president's post," he said on Saturday.
When asked whether the discussion touched on his intention to contest the president's post, Azmin appeared to refuse to deny or confirm the notion.
"Well, that is history. I have decided what I have put in my (nomination papers)," he told the reporters after filing in his nomination.
Azmin will face five other candidates.
They are Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, incumbent vice-president Tian Chua, secretary-general Datuk Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Hulu Selangor branch member Datuk K Ramachandran, former Puchong division chief S Murali.
When asked whether the crowded field would hamper his chances of winning, Azmin said this was a democratic process in the party.
"I respect my colleagues who are offering themselves. As for me, I have a good track record not only in the party, but as a reformist for the past 15 years," he said.
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