Umno treads a political tightrope, slamming DAP while glued to the unity government, all to reclaim Malay loyalty, an analyst says.
Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid calls it calculated: Stay in power without shedding grassroots who fled in GE15.
Sanctioned Strategy
Post-GE15, Umno softened anti-DAP stance to join Pakatan Harapan’s fold, but now ramps up attacks as GE16 nears.
Fauzi suspects top brass greenlight Youth chief Akmal Saleh’s barbs.
“If you can’t beat them, join them,” he quips, though doubting success.
Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi once vowed Barisan Nasional-Pakatan Harapan continuity for GE16.
Pragmatic Flexibility
Recent quit calls prompted Zahid’s loyalty pledge till polls; secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki says no GE16 deals yet.
The Asia Group’s Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani sees pragmatism, not shift: Soothe base over PH ties, especially DAP.
Umno’s Sabah pivot – backing Gabungan Rakyat Sabah’s Hajiji Noor post-rivalry election – proves it.
Personal Stakes
Such moves aid Zahid’s Bagan Datuk hold after his slim 2022 win, Asrul notes.
Political survival trumps ideology into GE16.
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