Negeri Sembilan opposition leader Hanifah Abu Baker has joined his Bersatu colleague in retracting support for a change in the state administration, citing the urgent need to maintain political stability and safeguard the economy.
Hanifah, the assemblyman for Labu, explained that his decision was made after careful consideration of the public interest.
He noted a clear inconsistency between the federal Umno leadership and its Negeri Sembilan chapter regarding the current crisis.
According to Hanifah, the approach taken by the state chapter appeared to prioritise party interests over the overall welfare of the people.
His shift follows a similar move by Germas assemblyman Ridzuan Ahmad, who also cautioned that a change in government at this time could trigger instability.
Economic recovery takes precedence
Ridzuan Ahmad previously acknowledged that despite Barisan Nasional’s 14 assemblymen withdrawing support for menteri besar Aminuddin Harun, it was not the right time for a transition.
He has since adopted a neutral stance, arguing that the focus must remain on reducing the cost of living and creating jobs.
The priority, according to Ridzuan, is to ensure the continuation of economic recovery amidst a challenging global climate.
He pledged to continue his role as an opposition representative by providing a check and balance on the state government.
These shifts have prompted Umno Youth chief Akmal Saleh to question whether this represents a unified position for Perikatan Nasional.
He also questioned if the move suggested a willingness by Bersatu to support the unity government at the federal level.
Origins of the leadership crisis
The political friction surfaced after state Barisan Nasional chief Jalaluddin Alias took responsibility for the crisis. He maintained that withdrawing support for Aminuddin was a necessary step to realign members with the core struggle of Umno.
Jalaluddin stated that the 14 Umno assemblymen were prepared to serve in the opposition until the next state election.
Previously, Negeri Sembilan Barisan Nasional claimed it had the necessary numbers to form a new government with the backing of five Perikatan Nasional assemblymen.
A simple majority of 19 assemblymen is required to form the state government in Negeri Sembilan. Aside from Hanifah and Ridzuan, the remaining three Perikatan Nasional assemblymen in the state are from PAS.
