Selangor PKR leaders have expressed shock and disappointment over Pakatan Harapan's decision to nominate Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the coalition's candidate for prime minister.

In a statement today, Selangor PKR information chief Hizwan Ahmad said although the state chapter of PKR respected the position made by the Harapan leadership, their disagreement had to be put on record.

Hizwan said PKR was born from its struggle against the Mahathir administration, and it would be inappropriate not to nominate someone from PKR for the top job.

"Our country is now in a new era. The millennials want to see someone fresh with new ideas, who will rectify the wrongs of Umno and BN.

"People will not forget, nor will the original reformists. Reform must involve all aspects," said Hizwan.

However, he said Selangor PKR would continue with its efforts to bring reforms to the state and work towards the defeat of Umno and BN.

'Make Dr M a senior minister instead'

Similar sentiments were expressed by Selangor PKR deputy chief Zuraida Kamaruddin (photo), who said the party's past struggle against the Mahathir administration should not be forgotten.

"I have nothing against Mahathir personally. On principle, I do not agree with a 'recycled' candidate.

"I propose that Harapan nominates Mahathir as a senior minister instead," Zuraida, who is also Wanita PKR chief, told Malaysiakini.

Harapan has formally announced Mahathir as their candidate for prime minister and PKR president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail for the deputy prime minister's post should it win the coming general election.

Although Bersatu, DAP and Amanah have been wholly supportive of the idea, it was reported by Malaysiakini that there are some elements in PKR who were against it.

Some within PKR said they could not accept the prospect of having their former enemy at the helm again, while others could accept anyone other than PKR de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim as their candidate for PM.