IPOH: Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad has accepted the resignation of his political secretary, Mohamad Hamidi Baharuddin, while brushing off social media claims linking the departure to drug-related activities.
Speaking at a press conference following the Invest In Perak 2026 programme on Thursday (Aug 20), Saarani clarified that he received Mohamad Hamidi’s resignation letter on Aug 10, with the decision taking effect on Aug 17.
"I accepted his resignation. He stated that he has health issues and needs time to recover," Saarani told reporters.
Addressing online speculation regarding the resignation, Saarani stated he would not act on unverified claims circulating on social media.
"I only read about it on social media. As long as there is no proof or official police report, I will not make any assumptions," he said.
Mohamad Hamidi, who also serves as the Lenggong Umno Youth chief, was appointed as the Mentri Besar's political secretary on Jan 3, 2023, succeeding Datuk Sham Mat Sahat.
Saarani added that a replacement for the position will be announced in due course.
