Former Malaysia Minister Returns to Support Najib Government

Muhammad Muhammad Taib was dropped from Najib cabinet in 2009
News comes amid opposition infighting ahead of an election

Muhammad Muhammad Taib, left, with Najib Razak and then-Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in 2004.
Photographer: Shamshahrin Shamsudini/EPA

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By Pooi Koon Chong and Anisah Shukry

September 17, 2017 at 10:50 AM UTC

Updated on

September 18, 2017 at 12:05 AM UTC

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A former Malaysia government minister who shifted allegiance to the opposition has returned to the ruling party, according to Prime Minister Najib Razak.

Muhammad Muhammad Taib, known as Mat Taib, is rejoining the United Malays National Organisation from the People’s Justice Party, or PKR, Najib told reporters on Sunday. Local reports earlier in the day said a "major announcement" would be made, sparking speculation Najib would announce snap elections.