Fourteen out of 24 Bersatu divisions in Perak are now publicly urging Muhyiddin Yassin to resign as party president. They accuse him of failing to effectively manage the escalating internal crisis currently plaguing the party.
Pasir Salak Bersatu chief Zainol Fadzi Paharudin, speaking as the group’s spokesman, stated that the ongoing turmoil could have been swiftly and smoothly resolved if it had been addressed immediately. He believes the president did not handle the matter with the necessary care and effectiveness from the start, according to a report by Sinar Harian.
Failure to Contain the Crisis
Zainol Fadzi stressed that the party president should have managed the internal turmoil delicately. He warned that the failure to contain the issue early on has severely worsened the situation. This internal strife, he noted, ultimately damages the overall image of Perikatan Nasional, and Bersatu in particular.
Bersatu’s internal discord was significantly amplified during its annual general assembly in September. This followed the circulation of an anonymous letter alleging a plot to remove Muhyiddin from his leadership position.
Further controversy arose over a resolution passed at the assembly that endorsed Muhyiddin as the party’s candidate for the 11th prime minister. The decision, intended to be brought to the PN leadership meeting, caused immediate tension with the party’s ally, PAS.
The situation was heightened by recent disciplinary action against several members. Tasek Gelugor MP Wan Saiful Wan Jan was sacked, while Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal was suspended for alleged breaches of the party’s constitution.
Additionally, Indera Mahkota MP Saifuddin Abdullah was summoned by the party’s disciplinary board for investigation. The probe concerns his alleged involvement in the movement aiming to unseat Muhyiddin from the presidency.
Calls for Accountability After Poll Defeat
The internal tensions were briefly put on hold as Bersatu focused on the Sabah state election on November 29. However, the party suffered a major defeat, losing all 33 seats it contested, including the loss of vice-president Ronald Kiandee in Sugut.
The heavy electoral defeat in Sabah has reignited demands for Muhyiddin to step down from the leadership. Simultaneously, some members are also urging deputy president and election director Hamzah Zainudin to be held accountable for the poor performance.
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