By Samuel Chua, Free Malaysia Today (7 March 2022)
PETALING JAYA: PKR needs its vice-president Rafizi Ramli to return to active politics and boost the party’s chances at the next general election, says Subang MP Wong Chen.
Rafizi, a former MP for Pandan, took a step back from politics in December 2019, citing the need to concentrate on a start-up project. He said he was at a stage in life where he “needs to learn”.
Wong Chen told FMT that “Rafizi is a proven politician, proven fighter and a great orator. That helps build a good image of the party, so we do need these kinds of people to be back in the party,”
“I hope he will be back soon but he’s still deciding. However, he will be a bonus for PKR for sure.”
Wong Chen said such a “bonus” could see PKR’s chances in GE15 being “equal or better” than at the last general election in 2018 when Pakatan Harapan won power in the federal government.
Rafizi’s supporters have recently been clamouring for his return to active politics after Malaysiakini quoted him as saying he was taking several factors into account before making a decision.
Rafizi is also seen as a contender for the vacant deputy president’s post, last held by Azmin Ali, who was sacked in the wake of the Sheraton Move, which led to the Pakatan Harapan government’s collapse in 2020.
However, PKR leaders appear to be divided over the prospect of Rafizi’s return, with some like Selangor PKR deputy communications director Zainol Abidin Mohamed being critical of his decision to quit politics.
Others like Kota Anggerik assemblyman Najwan Halimi said he would welcome Rafizi’s return as he would be able to play a role in strengthening the party.