‘It is invalid for him to remain Opposition Leader’ - Muhyiddin on Hamzah’s post-Bersatu status
Muhyiddin highlighted that in many democratic systems, an individual in Hamzah’s position would have already stepped down.
PETALING JAYA – Perikatan Nasional (PN) Deputy Chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has called on Pas to nominate a new Opposition Leader, insisting that Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin is no longer qualified to hold the post following his expulsion from Bersatu.
Speaking during an interview at the Bersatu headquarters on Monday, Muhyiddin stated that the matter directly concerns the credibility and dignity of PN and must be resolved without delay.
Muhyiddin highlighted that in many democratic systems, an individual in Hamzah’s position would have already stepped down.
“In other countries, the person would have already resigned. People would say it is an obligation; since you are no longer a party member, you have to go. But he has not relinquished the post,” Muhyiddin said.
He further revealed that the matter had been formalised during the most recent PN Supreme Council meeting.
“I informed them and council members are aware, that Hamzah is no longer qualified to hold the position because he is not a member. The position must be vacated and filled by a Member of Parliament (MP) from Pas. That was the decision, and it was agreed,” he added.
Muhyiddin explained that as Pas holds the highest number of seats within the coalition, the party has been entrusted to select a suitable candidate and formally notify the Dewan Rakyat Speaker.
“I would like to appeal through the media for the Pas leadership to make an immediate decision.
“Otherwise, it will affect the image of PN. Hamzah should feel ashamed because he has no locus standi; his legitimacy can be questioned.
“If there is no legitimacy, he cannot sit there anymore. It is invalid for him to remain. If he realises he is not entitled to hold the post, he should resign and vacate the seat immediately,” he added.
Addressing reports that 13 Bersatu MPs supported retaining Hamzah, Muhyiddin clarified that their views do not dictate official party policy.
“We did not consult all MPs because this is a party policy decision, not a matter for individual MPs. Members of Parliament must accept it because the nomination comes from the party.
“The party has discussed it this way; when Hamzah was appointed previously, it was valid. We did not ask all 70 other MPs to vote then, and we do not need to now,” he said.
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