Former Bersatu deputy Hamzah Zainudin signals a new political platform, stressing consensus-building and collective decision-making with supporters.
KUALA LUMPUR: “I’m not the head, but maybe I’m the captain,” declared Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin, signalling a new phase in his political journey.
Speaking at a press conference following a special “political reset” briefing, Hamzah was asked if he could lead a “new struggle.”
He replied that he is not the head, but he could be the one steering the ship.
“The struggle is to build this nation together with a new national consensus for the benefit of all communities.
“Agree to disagree, and to ensure that whatever we achieve will be shared together among all of us,” he told reporters.
READ MORE: Hamzah: I won’t appeal Bersatu sacking, will keep fighting
The former Bersatu deputy president also said he would most likely have a “new house” — a fresh platform for his supporters, whether as a new party or within existing structures.
Hamzah, now an independent Member of Parliament, said he currently has the backing of 19 Bersatu MPs, giving him a majority within the party’s parliamentary cohort.
When asked if he would call on other opposition MPs to join him, he said: “If they are supporting me, do they have to join me? Not necessary, right?”
He stressed that his call to “come and join me” is about an honest struggle for the nation’s future, not about assuming leadership of a new party.
On his role as opposition leader, Hamzah said key decisions would be determined collectively by MPs.
“It will be announced later. The Members of Parliament are the ones who will decide who becomes the leader,” he said.
Addressing rumours about potential alliances with other parties, he added: “Why ask that kind of question when I am now a free man?
“I have invited everyone to join me. If I have all the support, I should have some other options to look at.”
He also emphasised the principle of shared leadership and consensus-building, vowing that any agreements and decisions would be made together with his colleagues and supporters.
Hamzah added that he would invite a few members of the media for an exclusive interview to explain what really happened between him and the party leader.
When asked about his reaction to being sacked, he said: “Alhamdulillah. When I received the letter of dismissal, the first answer I gave to God: Alhamdulillah.”
The Sun Malaysia
