Rafizi's exit proves reformasi just empty slogan - Puad

Summary

• Umno supreme council member Puad Zarkashi says Rafizi Ramli’s exit from the cabinet proves reformasi is just an empty slogan.

• He also says reformasi failed due to the lack of will to implement it.

With Rafizi Ramli quitting the cabinet following his loss in the PKR polls, Umno supreme council member Puad Zarkashi said it was proof that the party’s reformasi clarion call is nothing but an empty slogan.

“It shows reformasi is just noise. It failed not because of the temptation of power, but because of a lack of will to make it happen.

“And how can reformasi happen when Rafizi himself alleged the PKR polls were marred with irregularities?” he asked on Facebook today.

On May 10, Rafizi said he would resign as economy minister if he failed to retain the PKR deputy presidency.

On May 23, Nurul Izzah Anwar won the PKR deputy presidency by a landslide, with Rafizi bagging just 28 percent of votes.

Staying true to his promise, the Pandan MP tendered his resignation earlier today.

Following Rafizi’s resignation, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad also quit as natural resources and environmental sustainability minister.

More work for PM

On that note, Puad said that with Rafizi’s exit from the cabinet, the latter has escaped being dropped via a cabinet reshuffle.

However, the Johor state assembly speaker reminded the public that the responsibility to ensure reforms happen now lies with the prime minister.

“The Selangor menteri besar said they will call for a special meeting to discuss a role for Rafizi, but he has already resigned as minister.

“He has escaped from being dropped, and now, the responsibility to implement reforms will fall on the prime minister’s shoulders,” he added.

Rafizi tenders resignation

No need to resign, keep fighting - KJ tells Rafizi

Zaid toys with 'bold' Rafizi as MACC chief

Rafizi spotted at Asean Summit in role as economy minister

PKR leadership summoned for debrief on polls, post for Rafizi