In a surprising turn of events, speculation is rife that Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi, also serving as the President of the United Malays National Organization (UMNO), is on the brink of resigning due to health concerns. Unofficial reports suggest that the mantle of Acting President may be passed on to Hishamuddin Hussein.
As these rumors swirl, a historical background sheds light on the internal strife within UMNO, with accusations and denials amplifying the political drama.
Accusations Against Annuar Musa
Prominent UMNO Supreme Council member Datuk Lokman Noor Adam has implicated former Barisan Nasional secretary-general Tan Sri Annuar Musa and his alleged associates as the orchestrators of an anti-Zahid movement within UMNO. In a live Facebook broadcast, Lokman claimed that Annuar and his group, known as "Gerakan Untuk Menumbangkan Presiden UMNO," are actively working to force Zahid's resignation. This movement reportedly involves sponsoring townhall sessions and rallies aimed at toppling the UMNO president.
Lokman went on to assert that the broader objective of this anti-Zahid movement is to destabilize the unity government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's leadership. He suggested that those involved fear legal repercussions and are desperate to distance themselves from potential legal consequences, framing their actions as a safeguard against being part of the "court cluster" and ending up behind bars.
Annuar Musa's Rebuttal
Responding to Lokman's accusations, Annuar Musa dismissed the claims as baseless and far-fetched. The former UMNO warlord, who joined PAS after being sacked by the UMNO Supreme Council, expressed disbelief at being portrayed as a powerful figure capable of influencing UMNO's internal affairs. Annuar stated that he has no interest in interfering with Zahid's position and emphasized that the longer Zahid remains, the better it is for him.
Lokman's Defense of UMNO
Despite UMNO's recent setback in state polls, where it secured a 3-3 status quo, Lokman defended the party against claims of weakness. He argued that UMNO defectors are attempting to create a false narrative of the party's vulnerability. The potential departure of Zahid, according to Lokman, is part of a larger strategy to prompt UMNO's exit from the unity government.
Lokman also addressed concerns about UMNO's collaboration with the Democratic Action Party (DAP) and acknowledged that a small group of Malays may find it challenging to shift their votes to DAP. However, he downplayed the significance of this group, emphasizing that it is relatively small.
Historical Perspective on Internal Strife
Lokman drew parallels between the current situation and historical incidents within UMNO, particularly during the leadership transitions from Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. He highlighted past attempts to undermine leaders through internal attacks, reminiscent of the recent allegations against Annuar Musa and his associates.
As the political turmoil within UMNO unfolds, the complex interplay of internal dynamics, historical precedents, and external influences continues to shape the party's trajectory. The rumors surrounding Zahid Hamidi's potential resignation add a layer of uncertainty to an already intricate political landscape.
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