Rafizi Back At Work Says Chang

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 The PKR vice-president says economy minister Rafizi Ramli was among the government leaders who met former Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida today.
Economy minister Rafizi Ramli during a meeting today with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim; investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz; and science, technology and innovation minister Chang Lih Kang. They were meeting Japan’s former prime minister Fumio Kishida. (Anwar Ibrahim Facebook pic)PUTRAJAYA: Economy minister Rafizi Ramli resumed his official duties today after reportedly taking extended leave
PKR vice-president Chang Lih Kang said he was in a meeting today with Rafizi, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and investment, trade and industry minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz at the Prime Minister’s Office, reported Bernama.
Chang, who is also the science, technology and innovation minister, said they met with Japan’s former prime minister Fumio Kishida.
“So yes, it is confirmed that he (Rafizi) is back at work,” he told reporters after launching an event in Putrajaya.
News of Rafizi’s leave surfaced after Malaysiakini quoted an unnamed Cabinet minister as confirming it but dismissing talk of his resignation.
This came amid speculation over Rafizi’s political standing, especially after the defeat of several apparent allies in PKR’s recent divisional polls.
A slew of prominent incumbent divisional leaders were also knocked out as members elected lesser-known figures.
Anwar, who is also PKR president, previously played down Rafizi’s decision to go on leave, saying it was a non-issue as he would only be on leave for a few days.
Rafizi is expected to defend his position as PKR deputy president at this month’s central leadership elections.
There is also speculation that he may be challenged by former PKR secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and PKR vice-president Nurul Izzah Anwar, who is Anwar’s daughter. - FMT

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