DAP’s position on former prime minister Najib Razak could lead Barisan Nasional to contest the next general election independently, according to political analyst Azmi Hassan.
He told FMT that Umno, as BN’s key component, would likely keep friendly relations with PKR and Amanah if forced to work with Pakatan Harapan again.
However, ties with DAP would remain openly strained.
Begrudging Partners in Unity Government
Umno and DAP would become reluctant allies, similar to the current BN-GRS relationship in Sabah. Azmi referred to the post-election alliance there after GRS fell short of a majority on November 29.
Despite competing as rivals in the polls, Umno’s support helped GRS chairman Hajiji Noor retain his chief minister post.
Lingering Tensions from Past Moves
A 2023 attempt by Sabah Umno to remove Hajiji still lingers in the minds of many GRS supporters.
Azmi’s remarks follow open backing from several DAP leaders for the High Court’s rejection of Najib’s bid to serve his remaining SRC International corruption sentence under house arrest.
Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin faced strong criticism for calling the ruling another reason to celebrate this year-end.
Umno’s Response and Mobilisation
Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki suggested it might be time to reassess cooperation with DAP.
Azmi said the court decision serves as a strong tool for Umno to rally its core voters. The party is portraying Najib as a victim to energise its grassroots.
DAP leaders’ reactions are similarly mobilising the party’s urban supporters.
Political Theatre Perspective
Syaza Shukri from International Islamic University Malaysia offered a different view. She described the exchanges as political theatre to stir respective supporters.
Both Umno and DAP still need each other, and the issue will likely fade like past disputes, including the Allah socks controversy.
DAP’s Delicate Balancing Act
Sivamurugan Pandian from Universiti Sains Malaysia said DAP is caught in a difficult position. It must hold onto core supporters while trying to gain more Malay backing.
Celebrating the ruling risks upsetting Umno and Malay voters.
Risks to Inter-Party Relations
Dialling down the response might make DAP seem weak among its base. Repeating such statements could harm ties between parties.
Sivamurugan stressed there must be a line, as remarks from DAP leaders reflect on the whole party. Differences should be handled by top leadership.
