A political analyst has downplayed the likelihood of Bersatu expelling its deputy president Hamzah Zainudin over claims that he undermined party president Muhyiddin Yassin.
Warnings through recent actions
Syaza Shukri from International Islamic University Malaysia noted that Muhyiddin has begun moves against critics within the party. This includes disciplinary measures taken against three MPs: Wan Saiful Wan Jan, Saifuddin Abdullah, and Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal.
She described these steps as Muhyiddin asserting control and sending a clear signal to Hamzah and his supporters.
Risk of further division
“It is more of a warning,” she told FMT. “I do not think they would dare sack Hamzah, who is also the opposition leader.
“But more importantly, given Bersatu’s already shaky position, sacking him would be riskier. He could turn it into political capital to challenge Bersatu and Muhyiddin.
“Right now, Bersatu needs to close ranks more than anything else.”
Hamzah has been summoned to appear before the party’s disciplinary board. Complaints accuse him of trying to sabotage the 2025 annual general assembly and undermine the leadership.
At least six other party leaders, including division chiefs and figures from Sabah Bersatu, were also called for hearings on separate matters linked to events in 2025.
Mixed views on potential outcomes
Wan Saiful and Saifuddin, MPs for Tasek Gelugor and Indera Mahkota, were sacked for actions seen as undermining Muhyiddin during the leadership friction involving Hamzah.
Wan Ahmad Fayhsal received a suspension. All three have appealed against their penalties.
Bersatu has faced months of instability. The latest disputes arise as PAS pushes to assume leadership of Perikatan Nasional from Muhyiddin.
Muhyiddin has encountered renewed demands to resign as Bersatu president after PAS rejected his statement that both parties agreed to scrap the PN chairmanship.
Image and discipline concerns
Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri from Global Asia Consulting said Bersatu’s reputation hangs in the balance as it considers action against its deputy president.
He argued that expelling Hamzah would demonstrate principle and the ability to uphold discipline, showing no one is beyond reach.
“If it does not act, Bersatu will appear weak, and its disciplinary board will seem like a toothless, symbolic entity.
“Hamzah would continue voicing out without restraint, challenging the leadership and eroding party solidarity. Rivals would exploit this vulnerability,” he said.
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