Datuk Mustapha Sakmud has been reappointed as Sabah PKR chairman, following a central leadership meeting that confirmed several key positions within the party on Saturday.

The announcement was made after the PKR Central Leadership Council (MPP) and Political Bureau convened earlier in Putrajaya on Saturday, where a number of strategic appointments were finalised.

Mustapha, who served as Deputy Higher Education Minister was appointed to replace Datuk Dr Sangkar Rasam in May last year following an internal rebellion.

Sangkar was removed after 15 of 26 divisional chiefs from Sabah and Labuan say they have lost confidence towards him.

Sakmud’s reappointment came after PKR ended party election and ahead of the forthcoming Sabah election this year.

His appointment comes alongside other significant leadership decisions, including the selection of Dr. Fuziah Salleh as Secretary-General, William Leong as Treasurer-General, and Nurul Izzah Anwar as Co-Election Director alongside Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil was also reaffirmed as the party’s information chief.

“The meeting also discussed preparations for the upcoming state election in Sabah, and we are committed to ensuring our party machinery is ready on the ground.

“We record our highest appreciation for the sacrifices and contributions of the former Deputy President and other past leaders, and we hope they will continue to support the party and our struggle,” he said.

Mustapha’s reappointment is viewed as a strategic move to strengthen PKR’s position in Sabah, where political alliances remain fluid and voter sentiment continues to evolve. – June 21, 2025