Former Economic Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli is increasingly being viewed as a liability not just to Pakatan Harapan (PH) but to Malaysia’s political landscape, according to National Unity Advisory Council (MPPN) member Professor Dr Tajuddin Rasdi.
Tajuddin explained that while Rafizi was once considered an asset to PH, he now struggles to collaborate with other parties, a challenge in Malaysia’s current coalition-based political environment.
“He frequently criticises without offering pragmatic solutions, raising questions about his role in national politics,” Tajuddin said. “He has little support from coalition partners such as Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), UMNO, Amanah, and most DAP leaders. No one wants to ally with someone who openly criticises their own party and president, even during demonstrations.”
Tajuddin also described Rafizi’s recent remarks targeting Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as “highly inappropriate.” Accusations that Anwar is obsessed with power and the premiership, he said, are unjust considering Anwar’s long struggle, which included police violence and years of imprisonment.
He added that Rafizi’s claims regarding PKR internal voting processes remain unproven and were never presented to the Registrar of Societies (ROS). Tajuddin further criticised Rafizi’s resignation as minister following a party election loss, arguing he should have instead mobilised supporters to contest the party presidency in a dignified manner.
Rafizi has reportedly indicated he will not seek PKR leadership and intends to contest the 16th General Election as an independent candidate. Tajuddin believes this approach diminishes his chances of success, noting that splitting non-Malay votes could advantage major parties like UMNO, Bersatu, and PAS in the next election.
In Tajuddin’s view, Rafizi’s current strategies and public stance risk weakening both his personal influence and broader coalition politics in Malaysia.
