Friday 29 Mar 2024
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KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 22): Former minister Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz said she had no interest in returning to politics and was only speaking about the government because “real friends” told things as they were.

“Remember the story of the emperor with no clothes,” she wrote in a Facebook post today, in apparent response to criticism against her for speaking against Putrajaya's decisions.

The former Umno Wanita chief  had recently questioned the government's “flip flop” on the policy of bringing in 1.5 million workers from Bangladesh into the country.

“I have no interest whatsoever in going back into active politics or government… or to intrude into public governance, unnecessarily.

“But it does not mean as a private citizen I cannot and should not voice my opinion especially when they are issues of public concern.”

She said that those who asked questions openly, like her, were regarded as “anti-government, anti my own party”.

Rafidah was criticised earlier this month by Umno Wanita head Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil who said her former boss had compromised her principles about discipline and party loyalty which she as the former head of the women's wing for 22 years had constantly reminded members about.

She also said those in the government would not give opinions and explanations that were off tangent or contradict with Putrajaya's goals.

“And that we also learn to accept comments, opinions and constructive criticism in the right spirit.

“There were given in good faith, motivated by love  for the country.

“And not wanting to see the government get into unnecessary problems and tight corners simply because of decisions and announcements that cause concern and can indeed be exploited by detractors,” Rafidah said.

She also urged the government to communicate policy well and to consult relevant stakeholders before coming to any decision.

Only good governance and administration can restore public confidence in Putrajaya, Rafidah added.

 

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