You certainly have the right to ask him to chip in for those things even while he is away. He also has the right to say "alright then, I'm going to move my things out".
Make sure during any negotiations to explain that it is only business. I've seen plenty of friendships ruined because of difference while rooming together. Try and treat it as strictly business and find an agreement that works for both of you (try not to get hung up on positions and take it or leave it talk).
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In the Absence of Information People Make Things Up.
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