KUCHING: The possible cabinet reshuffle under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s administration is seen as a strategic move to consolidate his inner circle and elevate key allies into influential positions.
According to political analyst Dr Ammar Redza Ahmad Rizal, figures such as Selangor Menteri Besar and Gombak MP Datuk Seri Amiruddin Shari could be brought to the forefront.
He said this would potentially allow Anwar to implement his desired policies and reforms more smoothly, avoiding the obstacles he may have encountered during Rafizi Ramli’s tenure.
“However, Anwar is taking a significant risk, it’s like playing Russian Roulette,” Ammar told the Sarawak Tribune when asked about the reshuffle speculation on Wednesday.
“Previously, Rafizi acted as a check and balance, helping ensure policies had meaningful impact. Without him, Anwar could end up in an echo chamber, surrounded by supporters who merely reinforce his views without challenge,” he said.
Ammar also noted that Anwar is currently facing a decline in public perception of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), with election data indicating the party only performs well in mixed-ethnicity constituencies.
“They lack support from Malay voters, and Chinese voters only back them due to a lack of trust in other coalitions.
“The real issue isn’t just limited support, it’s about preserving their image and relevance as political kingmakers. That means retaining control over key ministries like the Home Ministry, Education Ministry, and Economy Ministry, to maintain influence across coalitions such as UMNO, GPS, and DAP,” he said.
On potential new faces in the Cabinet, Ammar suggested that Nurul Izzah Anwar and Amiruddin might be included. However, he expressed uncertainty about Nurul Izzah’s possible role.
“She could be appointed to the Prime Minister’s Department or possibly as a deputy minister. But someone like Nurul Izzah isn’t suited to play second fiddle, she would overshadow any minister she works under, which could be problematic,” he said.
