Speculation is growing that Hamzah Zainudin, Bersatu deputy president and Larut MP, could face expulsion from the party soon.
Party leaders push for action
Sources told Berita Harian that during a dialogue session with Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin on Friday, several party leaders called for strict measures against Hamzah, who also serves as opposition leader in the Dewan Rakyat. Many in the party’s top leadership reportedly agreed that expulsion is warranted.
“Many agree that action should be taken against Hamzah. Many agree he should be expelled… just wait a little longer, the pressure from the grassroots has already started,” one source said.
Another source who attended the session said Muhyiddin had grown impatient with alleged disruptions linked to Hamzah. The source noted that Muhyiddin was angered by Hamzah’s silence amid repeated attacks on the president.
Muhyiddin openly stated that any leader causing trouble would face consequences. He wants the party rebuilt on a foundation of unity, free from sabotage by any leaders.
Grassroots frustration mounts
Negri Sembilan Bersatu leadership council chief Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker said grassroots members are upset with Hamzah for failing to defend Muhyiddin as deputy president should.
When asked about possible expulsion, the Labu assemblyman said there are current calls for such action. Party members are rational and can judge for themselves, he added.
“They are very angry because the deputy president’s role is supposed to be to support the president, including when the top leadership is under continuous attacks, yet Hamzah made no effort,” he said.
“I would prefer that any party leader unable to follow the constitution step aside and allow the party to be managed by those who can,” he added.
Attempts by Berita Harian to contact Hamzah and his aides for comment went unanswered.
Leadership tensions escalate
Bersatu secretary-general Mohamed Azmin Ali said a special supreme council meeting is scheduled at Muhyiddin’s residence today.
This comes as leadership tensions rise in the party. Calls have grown for Muhyiddin to resign as president, met with counter-calls for Hamzah to step down as deputy.
The internal conflict intensified after Muhyiddin resigned as Perikatan Nasional chairman, paving the way for a clear power struggle between factions.
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