3 days ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Unity govt agreement silent on leaders switching parties, says Rafizi
AMPANG JAYA: The agreement to form the unity government is silent on whether a party can accept members from other parties aligned with the federal administration or otherwise, said Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.
The Pandan member of parliament, who helped draft the unity government agreement, nonetheless shares Umno's concern that Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz's departure from Umno and potential entry into PKR could create political uncertainty for the unity government.
"As someone who helped draft the unity government agreement, I can say there is nothing in it that says whether a party can or cannot take in members from another component (parties aligned with the unity government).
"So this is a grey area, and eventually, it is something that needs to be discussed by the unity government's leadership," he told reporters after attending the closing ceremony of the Belia Madani 2.0 programme in the Pandan constituency near Ampang Hospital today.
Tengku Zafrul on Friday announced his resignation from all his posts in Umno.
The Investment, Trade and Industry Minister also expressed his intention to join PKR.
Tengku Zafrul's announcement received mixed reactions, with some Umno leaders voicing their unhappiness and concern over political harmony within the Madani administration.
Rafizi described the concerns raised by Umno, including its secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, as reasonable since they stem from a desire to maintain harmony among parties in the coalition.
"Umno's view is based on the need to preserve goodwill among parties in the unity government, and they believe such actions should be avoided as they could trigger a situation that may be difficult to manage.
"For instance, if someone from Umno is later removed, where do we draw the line? At what level of leadership would such moves be acceptable?
"I believe their concerns are valid and should be taken seriously by the unity government's top leadership," he said.
Meanwhile, Rafizi reiterated his decision not to accept any party positions following his resignation from the Cabinet.
He added that his political involvement was not about holding positions, but about continuing his message and struggle.
"I've already made it clear I will not take up any posts, even if I'm offered the post of deputy president or any other role."
When asked whether he had received offers to join other political parties, Rafizi said he would remain in PKR to serve his constituents.
