Denying claims that he had been recalled from the US by Putrajaya, the Umno man said he would have rejected an extension to his ambassadorship if offered.

“I can’t (accept that) because I want to help the prime minister. (If the contract is extended for two more years) I would be in the US until 2027 (and) GE16 would have already passed.

“I don’t care about anyone else and will just help (Anwar). But I won’t be contesting (in GE16),” he told FMT.

The former Umno Supreme Council member said he was only appointed as the ambassador to the US for two years as he was a political appointee, not a career diplomat.

“I have made preparations to return to Malaysia on Feb 14, which would be a week before my visa expires,” he said.

Nazri has held the post since Feb 9, 2023. The former six-term MP had served as legal affairs minister, among other portfolios, in the past.

He drew criticism for attending a Republican rally for US president Donald Trump in Washington DC and holding up a “Make America Great Again” placard.