The Malaysian Insight

PRIME Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad today dismissed talk of a cabinet reshuffle in December.

“No cabinet reshuffle,” he told reporters in Parliament.

He said this when asked to comment on speculation that he would announce a new cabinet line-up later this year.

“I don’t know. I can’t predict the future,” he said.

Last month, the prime minister had urged his ministers – just about five months into the job – to buck up in performing their duties.

And with Anwar Ibrahim back in Parliament, speculation had risen over whether PKR’s incoming president would be added to Dr Mahathir’s cabinet before he replaces the latter as prime minister.

Anwar had said he was not interested in cabinet posts now and wants to help Pakatan Harapan deliver parliamentary reforms.

Dr Mahathir became the prime minister for the second time after PH won the general election in May.

Earlier, while tabling the midterm review of the 11th Malaysia Plan in Parliament today, Dr Mahathir said a prime minister, menteri besar and chief minister could only serve a maximum of two terms.

“The term limit of the posts of prime minister, menteri besar and chief minister will be limited to two terms.

“A prime minister will also not hold any other portfolio,” Dr Mahathir told the Dewan Rakyat, reiterating PH’s pledge on the matter. – October 18, 2018.