Challenging to predict Umno-DAP cooperation - Analyst

SHAH ALAM - Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN) voters are expected to cast protest votes expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing crisis in the unity government.

Political analyst and social media expert from Universiti Teknologi Mara Shah Alam, Associate Professor Dr Sara Chinnasamy said the unresolved long-standing disputes between Umno and DAP have made it challenging for voters from both parties to accept the cooperation, leading them to consider protest votes in the upcoming State Elections.

According to her, the weak presentation of information and state election strategies within the unity government contribute to this sentiment despite the leaders' attempts to deny the issue.

"There needs to be deeper understanding and meaningful dialogue among the unity government parties.

"Although it was announced that former DAP publicity secretary Tony Pua would not participate in any state polls, party members may feel uneasy due to a potential exclusion from discussions for the upcoming state polls.

"Therefore, when party leaders within the unity government express their own statements and opinions on this matter, it clearly indicates a fading direction and consensus of the unity government," she told Sinar on Monday.

Sara also pointed out that predicting the cooperation between Umno and DAP is a challenging task.

She highlighted that over the past 60 years, Umno has cultivated a negative image of DAP in the minds of Malay voters, portraying it as an unacceptable party to the Malays.

However, she claimed that Umno is willing to collaborate with DAP to gain ruling power.

"But this perspective is held by Umno politicians, not the Malay voters. This perception, ingrained for over 60 years, is not easily forgotten and remains in their memory.

"Therefore, the acceptance of cooperation between Umno and DAP may exist among elite politicians, but it is not present at the grassroots level," she added.