Bersatu’s recent move to nominate candidates for state chairmanships across six states is being viewed by analysts as a strategic maneuver to ensure the party maintains a firm grip on political power within the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition.
Analyst Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri remarked that these appointments go beyond administrative routine.
He suggested the move signals that Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin remains the primary power broker within PN, despite his decision to step down from the coalition’s top chairmanship.
Strategic moves and internal rivalry
Zaharuddin, representing Global Asia Consulting, told FMT that the timing of the announcement was a pre-emptive measure designed to eliminate room for potential power struggles.
He specifically noted that it appears intended to silence speculation surrounding a faction linked to Hamzah Zainudin.
While it remains uncertain if Hamzah’s camp will formally align with PN through a new entity, Zaharuddin believes Muhyiddin is acting early to ensure the existing power structure of Bersatu remains unchallenged.
He described the move as effectively closing the door before any rival could knock.
According to Zaharuddin, Muhyiddin is engaged in a high-stakes game of political chess.
He argued that relinquishing the PN chairmanship was a cosmetic change, while real influence remains centered around the Bersatu president.
By claiming these state posts under Bersatu’s quota, Muhyiddin ensures the coalition remains within his sphere of control, prioritising dominance over consensus.
Challenges to Bersatu dominance
The states currently under discussion for these appointments include Perak, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, and Sabah.
Muhyiddin recently confirmed that names had been submitted to PN chairman Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, asserting that these positions belong to Bersatu.
The insistence on these quotas suggests an unwillingness to share key influence with PAS or other internal factions.
Zaharuddin pointed to the proposed reappointment of Azmin Ali as Selangor PN chief as an example of Bersatu’s intent to rely on veteran figures, even if their recent electoral performance has been less than stellar.
However, Mazlan Ali of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia suggested that Bersatu’s path might not be smooth.
He noted that the party is facing internal challenges and the rising influence of Hamzah’s faction. Mazlan questioned whether the party can realistically demand such a high number of leadership posts given its current strength.
The Hamzah factor and coalition dynamics
Mazlan highlighted a potential dilemma should a new party led by Hamzah Zainudin join the coalition.
He predicted that Bersatu would likely object to such an entry, as Hamzah’s camp might demand the same seats and leadership roles traditionally held by Bersatu.
If Hamzah becomes part of the PN framework, his faction would likely seek state chairmanship posts, which Mazlan warns could trigger significant internal tensions.
Ultimately, analysts believe that while a title holds prestige, the true value of a state chairman lies in the ability to win seats and mobilise the political machinery.
For Bersatu, the challenge will be proving it can still deliver results while navigating these complex internal rivalries.
