THE political landscape in Malaysia seems to be constantly shifting, with rumours of power grabs and challenges to the current government.The latest reports suggest that Perikatan Nasional (PN) is trying to convince several Barisan Nasional (BN) MPs to resign and contest by-elections, potentially leading to a new government with PN leader Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as prime minister.However, in the wake of talks of dissent within UMNO, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has stated that BN will continue to support Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as prime minister.Zahid’s statement defending all BN MPs raises questions about how he will handle those who are planning to resign from the party.This ambiguity could potentially impact the stability of the unity government and its future prospects.“There are various challenges including the recent reports saying that 15 members of parliament from BN want to resign, to have a by-election,” he said, adding that he does not want to face the wrath of God but as BN chairman and UMNO president.
“God willing, I will defend all BN parliamentarians and will continue to support Anwar.”Some reports said Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Daim Zainuddin were behind the ‘secret’ talks held by the BN MPs which also included two PKR MPs.Moreover, Zahid also spoke about the water supply disruption issue in Kedah and pledged that if a unity government is given a mandate in the state election, Anwar Ibrahim will solve the problem as the finance minister.Zahid, who met with the media during his visit to Kedah, asked how many (areas) in Kedah do not have enough water during this Eid.“God willing, if this (state) government is under a unity government, Anwar will solve the water problem… because the prime minister is also the finance minister. If he forgets, I will remind him of the people of Kedah.” — April 29, 2023
Main photo credit: Utusan Malaysia
