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By Mihar Dias Copyright (C) September 2023
Given the dynamism of Malaysian politics, predicting the longevity of political figures in their roles could be a challenging task.
However, when it comes to Zahid Hamidi's tenure as Deputy Prime Minister, it appears that his position is as secure as ever.
Despite calls for his resignation, rallies, and lingering shadow of earlier legal proceedings, Zahid's foothold in the government seems unwavering.
One key reason for Zahid's resilience lies in his role as President of Umno, a position largely unchallenged and set to remain secure until the next party election.
His adept manoeuvring within the party's political scene allowed him to rid himself of challengers and consolidate his power. This ensures his continued influence within Umno, a crucial component of the current government.
Additionally, Zahid's position as Deputy Prime Minister hinges on the support of the Prime Minister without being explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
With the current political climate and a majority close to two-thirds in Parliament, it is highly unlikely that PMX would lose the confidence of Parliament anytime soon. This further solidifies Zahid's position within the government.
The prospect of rallies and protests demanding Zahid's resignation may shape public opinion, but history has shown that such actions alone rarely bring down a sitting government in Malaysia. Even Anwar Ibrahim, who was a prominent figure in the Reformasi movement, experienced its limitations in effecting political change.
Moreover, the possibility of renewed legal challenges against Zahid may be a cause for concern, but the pace of investigations and potential legal proceedings could extend well beyond the next General Election (GE16). This leaves Zahid with a comfortable runway in his current role.
In conclusion, despite various efforts and demands for his resignation, Zahid Hamidi's position as Deputy Prime Minister seems secure until GE16. Anwar Ibrahim's need for Umno's support to maintain the government's stability is a significant factor in this equation.
While Malaysian politics can be unpredictable, the current political environment suggests that Zahid will remain in his role as DPM for the foreseeable future, as both he and Anwar will undoubtedly work to ensure the stability of the government and secure their own positions.
Zahid Hamidi isn't going anywhere!
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