In the aftermath of losing power in 2018, Umno leaders, led by President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, made a bold move to seek reconciliation with Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, hoping to form an alliance between Umno and PAS. However, what ensued was not a peaceful negotiation but a blistering 45-minute confrontation that underscored deep-seated animosities and political divisions.
According to revelations from Romen Bose's upcoming book, "Shattered Hopes," Dr. Mahathir's response to Zahid's proposal was nothing short of explosive. Sources cited in the book described Mahathir as "thoroughly incensed," unleashing a torrent of criticism and condemnation upon the Umno delegation. The former Prime Minister reportedly chastised them for their allegiance to Najib Razak, accusing them of leading Umno to ruin and causing detriment to the Malay community.
During the heated meeting, Mahathir did not mince words, labeling Umno as "bangang" (stupid) for believing that unity could be restored simply for the sake of Malay solidarity. He vehemently rejected the proposal for Umno and PAS to join forces under his leadership or within Pakatan Harapan, denouncing Umno as "busuk" (rotten) and "jijik" (nauseating). Mahathir's stance was clear: he would never accept Umno in its current form or as a viable partner in governance.
Moreover, Mahathir laid down stringent conditions for any potential reconciliation. He demanded that all Umno leaders declare their assets and undergo thorough investigations by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) before even considering joining his party, Bersatu. This ultimatum, as reported by Bose's sources, signaled Mahathir's uncompromising stance on integrity and accountability within the political sphere.
The meeting also shed light on Mahathir's strategic maneuvering to thwart Anwar Ibrahim's political ambitions. Despite publicly supporting Anwar, Mahathir privately expressed reservations about Anwar becoming the next Prime Minister. He allegedly strategized with his aides to field Mohamad Hasan in the Port Dickson by-election to impede Anwar's path to leadership - a move aimed at reshaping the political landscape to his advantage.
Despite the setback in their meeting with Mahathir, Umno under Zahid's leadership remained resolute in their quest to regain power. Described as a determined leader by Bose, Zahid viewed the Sheraton Move - the political maneuver that eventually ousted Pakatan Harapan - as an opportunity to realign alliances and reclaim political dominance.
"Shattered Hopes" promises readers an insider's view into the tumultuous aftermath of the 2018 elections, offering insights into the power struggles and strategic calculations that reshaped Malaysian politics. As the book hits shelves on June 30, it is poised to ignite discussions about the complexities of political alliances, personal rivalries, and the enduring quest for power in Malaysia's ever-evolving political landscape.
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