Deputy premier Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's presence at the Jelebu Umno division headed by de facto Law Minister Dr Rais Yatim today fuelled speculations that the latter may be heading towards better days in the party due to the duo's close personal ties.

One thing seems certain, if others do not hold much water - Rais will be contesting for an important post in the forthcoming Umno polls. At least, Abdullah's presence in Jelebu and surely, his heaping of accolades for Rais publicly can be taken as an approval and endorsement.