The dismissal of Bersatu’s deputy president and 16 others signals a full-blown leadership crisis, with analysts framing it as a battle for legitimacy that could reshape the opposition

KUALA LUMPUR: Bersatu’s internal turmoil escalated dramatically as its disciplinary board dismissed deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin.

Sixteen other members, including three MPs and two assemblymen, were also sacked, signalling an end to compromise in the party’s leadership crisis.

The tension was underscored as Hamzah and president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin held separate meetings with their supporters on the same day.

Muhyiddin stated the disciplinary actions were necessary to maintain stability and strengthen the party.

Meanwhile, Hamzah announced he would not appeal his dismissal and intends to serve as an independent MP, declaring himself a “freeman” no longer bound to do “something he does not like”.

Political analysts view the crisis as a clear struggle for legitimacy with severe consequences for voter confidence.

Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said it is a “battle of legitimacy” where the effective framing of the issue will determine the rightful leader.

He warned the crisis threatens grassroots morale, disrupts party machinery, and affects seat negotiations with partners.

“Public perception of instability undermines confidence in a party’s ability to steer the country,” he told Bernama.

Sivamurugan added that prolonged crisis could be exploited by opponents to reinforce a narrative of immature conflict management.

He suggested the party risks a formal split or the formation of a separate internal bloc.

“If there is a split, I see the possibility that Bersatu will remain with Muhyiddin and Azmin (Bersatu secretary-general), along with Gerakan and MIPP and form a new coalition,” he said.

“Hamzah will likely be supported by PAS and other parties and coalitions, as well as the possibility of cooperating with UMNO.”

The analyst also highlighted pressure to reshuffle Hamzah’s position as Opposition Leader.

“PAS will likely be the key factor in balancing between Muhyiddin and Hamzah,” Sivamurugan added.

Universiti Malaya’s Prof Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi noted Hamzah’s significant influence and network.

“Hamzah is very influential and has the support of a large majority among Bersatu elected representatives,” he said.

“Hamzah also has the support of a large majority among Bersatu division chiefs, Muhyiddin does not have this advantage.”

Awang Azman said the crisis tests PAS’s strategic loyalty within the Perikatan Nasional coalition.

“PAS may take a ‘wait-and-see’ approach, weighing political benefits carefully,” he stated.

“While not openly supporting Hamzah, PAS may prefer his leadership to replace Muhyiddin, especially after prior tensions following the Perlis Menteri Besar crisis.”

He concluded that the dismissals test Bersatu’s political maturity and PN’s integrity.

“In politics, crises can divide or reorganise,” Awang Azman said.

 The Sun Malaysia