Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Anwar urges Loke to reconsider Cabinet resignation over Najib pardon
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on Transport Minister Anthony Loke to reconsider his decision to step down from Cabinet, following the conditional pardon granted to former premier Najib Razak.
LSN Malaysia ·
HANGZHOU, Sept 23 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has appealed to Transport Minister Anthony Loke to revisit his resignation decision, amid ongoing political developments surrounding the partial pardon extended to former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
The transport minister had announced his intention to quit Cabinet in response to the pardon granted to Najib, signalling dissatisfaction with the government's decision. Anwar's intervention marks an effort to retain Loke within the administration and prevent further ministerial departures that could destabilise the coalition.
The conditional pardon, which reduced Najib's prison sentence, has triggered mixed reactions across the political landscape, with some coalition members expressing concern about the government's direction and implications for accountability.
Loke's potential departure would represent a significant blow to the Cabinet, given his prominent role in transport affairs. Anwar's appeal underscores the delicate balancing act required to maintain coalition cohesion while navigating contentious decisions affecting senior officials.
The matter highlights tensions within the ruling coalition as it grapples with legacy issues from previous administrations whilst attempting to chart a fresh governance trajectory.