Political analysts have brushed off Umno Youth chief Akmal Saleh’s suggestion that he might resign, following party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s firm rejection of calls for Umno to leave the unity government, calling it a mere political ploy.
Unlikely to Resign
James Chin of University of Tasmania said Akmal is unlikely to step down, as doing so would mean losing his Melaka exco position.
The anti-party hopping law would also limit his future political paths.
“There is nowhere for him to go, so this is just a PR exercise,” he told FMT.
Haris Zuan Jaharudin of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia agreed, noting that Akmal’s outspoken and confrontational approach is typical of Umno Youth leaders.
“Think of Hishammuddin Hussein and Khairy Jamaluddin in their days as youth chiefs,” he said.
He referred to Hishammuddin’s keris-waving incident in 2007 and Khairy’s aggressive style during his time.
Background to the Hint
Akmal posted a message on social media yesterday, stating “perhaps it is time for me to step aside” after Zahid turned down his push for Umno to exit the government.
Last Saturday, Akmal organised a convention where he called for Umno to withdraw from the unity government and explore cooperation with PAS in the opposition.
Zahid, however, made it clear that Umno would stay in the government until the end of the current term.
Strategic Miscalculation
Wong Chin Huat of Sunway University said Akmal’s moves may stem from limited backing within the party.
They could also be an effort to cast himself as a martyr to stir Umno members.
“If Umno left the government, Zahid’s position might be threatened. But even if Zahid stepped down, other leaders are unlikely to support an exit,” Wong said.
“In this situation, Akmal comes across as either a true radical or someone taking a big risk for potential gains.”
Azmi Hassan of Akademi Nusantara said Akmal made a tactical error by openly demanding the party’s withdrawal.
His strong push at the convention left him vulnerable once the leadership rejected it.
“He acted hastily without fully considering the outcomes. He knew the leadership would not agree to leave, yet he pressed on,” Azmi said.
“He would have been better off suggesting the Supreme Council review cooperation with Pakatan Harapan, rather than issuing an ultimatum to quit the government.”
