At a press conference today, Anwar said he has informed deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi on the matter.

Earlier this week, Zahid had said Jazlan will be reappointed to Felcra after taking into account the wishes of its settlers. However, the reappointment of the Umno politician drew criticism from social media users and civil society groups.

Anwar said there was no issue for politicians to be appointed into such positions, but such appointments must be in accordance with good governance.

“I want to explain that political figures or MPs may be appointed but we will consider the individual’s professional capabilities and past performance, as well as compliance with regulations and principles of good governance,” he said.

Jazlan, who is the Kelantan Umno chief, was first appointed Felcra chairman in October last year. He also served as deputy rural and regional development minister in the Najib Razak administration between 2015 and 2018.

On Dec 15, chief secretary to the government Zuki Ali issued a circular to secretaries-general of each ministry saying the Cabinet had agreed to the immediate termination of the contracts of political appointees.

Those affected are in federal statutory bodies and government companies under the Minister of Finance Incorporated, and government-linked companies (GLCs) and investment companies.

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