Cabinet reshuffle: 'There's no such thing as 'proposals' to join the Cabinet' - Johari

Focus

By NURHIDAYAH HAIROM

01 Oct 2023 03:32pm

Johari (centre) during a field visit to the Orang Asli Village of Sungai Gapoi, Bentong on Sunday.

BENTONG - There was no pressure or coercion on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to carry out a cabinet reshuffle, said Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.

Without confirming or denying the rumours that his name is included in the new lineup of the Unity Government's cabinet, the Titiwangsa member of parliament said that the decision lies entirely with Anwar.

"In politics, there's no 'proposals' or offers to join the cabinet.

"In politics, when he (Anwar) becomes the Prime Minister, he will assemble his team and lineup, just like playing football.

"He can't do it alone; he needs a team.

"Similarly, the government needs a team, each with their own expertise.

"However, it takes time to adapt in terms of the government's journey.

"That's why there's no pressure, and we cannot force the Prime Minister to do what he thinks is best for the country," he said after visiting the Orang Asli village of Sungai Gapoi here today.

There have been speculations that Anwar will carry out a cabinet reshuffle, especially in light of the need to appoint a Domestic Trade and Costs of Living Ministry following the passing of Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, who previously held the position.

Johari's name has been mentioned as a potential candidate for the position of Deputy Finance Minister if there is a cabinet reshuffle involving ministers.

On Friday, Anwar stated that he was contemplating a cabinet reshuffle, but there was no urgent need for that.

Meanwhile, Johari, who is also the Government Backbenchers' Club chairman, said it would not be appropriate to pressure Anwar, considering that the Unity Government has only been established for 10 months.

"In these 10 months, we have faced major global economic challenges, and we are also working to adjust to working with the parties within the Unity Government.

"I think if we give it enough time until 2027, we will be able to assess the effectiveness of the Unity Government in governing the country," he said.