Bersatu sacks senior leader Saifuddin Abdullah over public criticism of party president

LocalPolitics
7 Jan 2026 • 9:15 AM MYT
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PARTI Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia has expelled Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah from the party with immediate effect, marking a significant escalation in internal disciplinary action against one of its senior figures.

The dismissal was confirmed by Armada Bersatu Malaysia information chief Harris Idaham Rashid when contacted by Bernama on Wednesday.

He said the decision followed a disciplinary process that concluded with a meeting of the party’s disciplinary board on Tuesday.

“Yes, it is true (that he has been dismissed). (This is because) he had previously criticised the Bersatu president (Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin) on an open platform,” Harris Idaham said.

He added that Saifuddin had been given the opportunity to defend himself before the decision was taken.

“He was given the chance to defend himself and the disciplinary board meeting held yesterday decided on his dismissal,” he said.

Harris Idaham said Saifuddin was found to have breached Clause 9.1.4 of the party’s constitution, although he did not elaborate on the specific offence committed by the Indera Mahkota Member of Parliament.

Saifuddin, who is also the former Pahang chairman of Perikatan Nasional, later confirmed his expulsion when contacted. He said he was informed of the decision earlier on Wednesday.

“I will file an appeal in the next few days,” he said.

The move underscores mounting tensions within Bersatu as the party seeks to enforce discipline among its leadership ranks, particularly over public dissent against the party president.

Saifuddin’s expulsion is expected to draw wider attention within political circles, given his standing in the party and his parliamentary role. - January 7, 2025