Analysts view the sacking and suspension of Bersatu leaders aligned with Hamzah Zainudin as party president Muhyiddin Yassin’s bid to curb his deputy’s influence and solidify his hold on power.
Curbing Rival Influence
Azmi Hassan, a fellow at the National Council of Professors, said these moves ensure Hamzah lacks the support to challenge Muhyiddin for the presidency.
He described the power to sack members as a potent weapon against rivals.
Bersatu has faced prolonged crisis from clashes between Muhyiddin loyalists and Hamzah’s faction, Azmi told FMT.
This explains Muhyiddin’s determination to retain the presidency and wield dismissal authority.
Recent Disciplinary Actions
He commented on the sacking of Supreme Council member Saifuddin Abdullah for breaching Clause 9.1.4 of the party constitution, though details remain unspecified.
In October, Bersatu dismissed Tasek Gelugor MP Wan Saiful Wan Jan and suspended Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal for constitution and conduct violations.
The disciplinary board also expelled four division chiefs: Azrudin Idris of Hang Tuah Jaya, Faizal Asmar of Pengerang, Fadhli Ismail of Ipoh Timur, and Isa Saidi of Ampang.
Warnings on Party Stability
Reports link their expulsion to a statutory declaration movement targeting Muhyiddin and unrest at an official event.
Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri of Global Asia Consulting agreed, noting the actions signal dismantling of the rival camp.
He cautioned that perceptions of division could erode voter trust and strain Perikatan Nasional ties.
Muhyiddin may appear dominant, but rivals could exploit this to undermine Bersatu’s standing.
Poor handling risks alienating young supporters and professionals seeking inclusive leadership, he added.
Enforcing Discipline
Syaza Shukri of International Islamic University Malaysia said the sackings aim to restore discipline and unity by neutralising key camps.
Saifuddin, a vocal critic of the president and party, became a prime target.
Bersatu operates as an elitist party with top-down power, where leader unity is essential.
