Cracks Deepen in Bersatu as Leadership Tug-of-War Intensifies
Background
PETALING JAYA: Cracks are deepening in Bersatu as two rival factions push for different leaders to lead the party into the 16th general election (GE 16), raising concerns about internal stability.
The Rift
Insiders say the rift started in July last year, when party president Muhyiddin Yassin outlined a succession plan that would see Hamzah Zainudin appointed as his deputy and Azmin Ali as the party’s secretary-general. However, that plan has created a split in the party, with Azmin’s camp insisting Muhyiddin should remain at the helm while another wants Hamzah to take over.
Leadership Tug-of-War
The succession plan is clear, but there are people in Azmin’s camp who believe only Muhyiddin can lead Bersatu into GE16. The other camp, which supports Hamzah, is adamant that the transition plan must be honoured. They ask if voters can trust Bersatu to govern (the country) if the party fails to follow through on its own leadership structure, a party insider told FMT.
The Gopeng Retreat
Tensions within the party initially emerged in December 2023, when speculation arose that Hamzah was on the brink of being sacked due to issues arising within the leadership circle, a source said. This prompted Bersatu leaders to organise a retreat in Gopeng, Perak, where a consensus was reached among the rival camps. It was agreed that Muhyiddin would have the final say on all leadership decisions and that he would hand over the reins to Hamzah once the time came.
The Split
However, those in Azmin’s camp began pushing for Muhyiddin to remain as party leader through GE16, arguing that his leadership experience was crucial to secure voter confidence. Meanwhile, Hamzah’s camp continued to insist the transition must proceed as planned, warning that any deviation would create long-term instability within the party.
Conclusion
The split is clear. Azmin’s camp wants Muhyiddin to stay on, believing that his leadership will keep the party together and prevent internal collapse before the election. However, the other side is determined to see the transition through. For them, the succession plan is not just about leadership, but about party integrity and credibility heading into GE 16.
FAQs
- What is the source of the rift in Bersatu?
The rift started when party president Muhyiddin Yassin outlined a succession plan that would see Hamzah Zainudin appointed as his deputy and Azmin Ali as the party’s secretary-general. - What is the current state of the party?
Two rival factions are pushing for different leaders to lead the party into GE16. - What is the main issue at stake?
The party’s internal stability and ability to present a united front in the general election. - What is the potential impact on the party’s performance in the general election?
If the party fails to resolve its leadership issue, it may struggle to present a united front and secure voter confidence, which could negatively impact its performance in the general election.