PETALING JAYA: Bersatu’s decision to expel deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin and 16 others has been slammed as a “sham” although it was not unexpected.
Political analysts said that it could lead to an upheaval in the Opposition.
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However, they felt Hamzah could still remain as Opposition Leader if he can garner enough support from the Perikatan MPs in Dewan Rakyat, especially the 43 from PAS. PAS has described Hamzah’s sacking as “shocking”.
Bersatu secretary-general Datuk Seri Azmin Ali announced yesterday that Hamzah had been sacked from the party.
“The Bersatu supreme council leaders have been informed that the disciplinary board has decided that Hamzah be expelled from the party and stripped of his membership rights,” Azmin said.
Bersatu’s Youth wing, Armada, has backed the sacking.
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“Armada respects the decision of the disciplinary board. This shows that Bersatu never compromises with any leader or member who violates the party constitution and the code of conduct,” said wing leader Hilman Idham.
“Armada will continue to stand with the leadership in efforts to strengthen and consolidate the party before the upcoming election.”
Others, however, did not agree.
Party vice-president Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee, a hardcore Hamzah supporter, called the disciplinary board “a sham” for making the decision in Hamzah’s absence.
“He had already informed the disciplinary board that he could not attend the hearing on Feb 12 as he would be abroad.
“This is abuse of power to stay relevant. The Bersatu disciplinary board merely follows the orders of party president (Tan Sri) Muhyiddin Yassin.
“The president is out of touch with what the members want,” said Kiandee.
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Machang MP Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal, who was among those expelled, said Hamzah’s dismissal was considered a small setback for the party.
“He is still the Opposition Leader. Muhyiddin is digging his own grave because he listens to corrupt people.
“Muhyiddin is crazy, he has lost his way. The things he used to fight for against former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib, he is now doing. He himself is now Najib,” he said.
PAS’ deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said Hamzah’s expulsion was shocking and hoped Bersatu’s internal strife could be quelled as soon as possible.
“PAS will discuss the Opposition Leader’s position with our parliamentary bureau.
“The PAS machinery is focusing on the Melaka election likely to be held this year. Johor and Sarawak will also face state elections next year,” said Tuan Ibrahim.
Political expert Prof Dr Sivamurugan Pandian of Universiti Sains Malaysia
said Hamzah was still Opposition Leader until decided otherwise.
“He can remain Opposition Leader as long as he retains the majority support from opposition MPs in the Dewan Rakyat. Precedent shows bloc-backing matters more than party membership.
“In the short term, it risks widening factional cracks, but if leadership consolidates control and MPs close ranks, it could eventually strengthen party discipline rather than split it.
“But if Hamzah has the numbers, unity will be shaken within Bersatu,” said Sivamurugan.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia political analyst Dr Mazlan Ali said the harsh action could cause Bersatu to break up.
“This may divide Bersatu, and the voices for Muhyiddin to step down could grow louder. The pressure will now definitely be on Muhyiddin.
“Hamzah has the support of PAS. His expulsion will not go down well with the party,” Mazlan said.
“PAS leaders have also clashed with Muhyiddin, to the extent of calling on him to step down as Perikatan chairman, which he did.
“This hard stance against Hamzah could make the coming elections a bumpy road for Perikatan components.”
