PETALING JAYA: Bersatu secretary-general Azmin Ali could emerge as an important figure in any future effort to rebuild cooperation between the party and Pakatan Harapan (PH), although analysts believe such a development remains unlikely while Muhyiddin Yassin continues to steer the party’s direction.
Political analyst Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri said Bersatu’s increasingly difficult position, amid tensions within Perikatan Nasional (PN) and strained ties with PAS, may eventually force the party to reassess its political strategy.
He said Bersatu could be compelled to review its leadership structure and identify individuals capable of negotiating new political arrangements ahead of upcoming state elections and the 16th General Election.
Johor voters will head to the polls on July 11, while Negeri Sembilan is scheduled to hold its state election on Aug 1.
Azmin seen as experienced negotiator
According to Zaharuddin, Azmin’s extensive political network and experience in negotiations across political blocs make him one of the few Bersatu leaders capable of facilitating a shift should the party seek renewed engagement with PH.
He said that if political survival requires Bersatu to reopen discussions with former rivals, including PH, Azmin would have the credibility and mandate to undertake such a task.
Zaharuddin pointed to Azmin’s decade-long service as PKR deputy president as evidence of his experience in managing complex political relationships.
Azmin was expelled from PKR in February 2020 following his involvement in the Sheraton Move, which led to Bersatu’s withdrawal from PH and the collapse of the PH government.
Leadership transition possible without direct challenge
Zaharuddin also argued that Azmin would not necessarily need to challenge Muhyiddin directly to become a more influential figure within Bersatu.
Unlike Hamzah Zainudin, whose departure followed internal disputes, Azmin could potentially assume a larger role through a gradual leadership transition if concerns over the party’s future continue to grow, he said.
Cooperation remains difficult
Meanwhile, political analyst Azmi Hassan said cooperation with other parties, including PH, may be among Bersatu’s strongest options for long-term political survival.
He added that PH could also gain by expanding its appeal among Malay voters through broader political cooperation.
However, Azmi noted that relations between PH and Muhyiddin remain a major obstacle, describing the history between both sides as a significant barrier to renewed collaboration.
Muhyiddin and Azmin have previously dismissed allegations that Bersatu is seeking closer ties with PH, describing such claims as baseless and malicious.
Muhyiddin has also repeatedly maintained that Bersatu will remain in PN despite internal challenges, while Azmin was recently removed from his position as the coalition’s deputy secretary-general.
