More political figures expected to return to Umno

SHAH ALAM – Umno’s move to open its doors for unconditional unity is seen as having the potential to attract back political figures who had previously resigned, were expelled or left the party — including those who later joined Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) but were also expelled.

Universiti Malaya (UM) Department of Political Science senior lecturer Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub said the move could be viewed as a political ceasefire that creates space for former leaders to return and become active in the party again.

He said many leaders realise it is difficult to navigate Malay politics without a strong platform such as Umno, especially as the party is currently part of the government.

“I agree that this political ceasefire will attract many leaders who previously resigned, were expelled or left the party because they realise it is difficult to survive politically with other parties besides Umno, which is in the government.

“We have also seen former leaders such as Khairy Jamaluddin who have not joined any other party, which shows how difficult it is to find a platform like Umno to grow in Malay politics,” he said.

He said this when commenting on Umno’s initiative to open the door for unconditional unity for former party members.

Umno’s move to open its doors for unconditional unity is seen as having the potential to attract back political figures who had previously resigned, were expelled or left the party — including those who later joined Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) but were also expelled. - Bernama FILE PIX

Tawfik said the move also aims to strengthen Umno’s position and reduce political competition ahead of the 16th General Election (GE16).

He noted that Umno has long been seen as the “guardian of the nation” and previously served as a platform uniting various non-governmental organisations (NGOs), parties and Malay individuals before the country gained independence.

“Umno wants to strengthen the party again, reduce its enemies and ensure it faces minimal competition in the upcoming GE16.

“In my view, there is no need to be suspicious because this is a good intention. We should not assume that every political strategy is a trap because sometimes political strategies can benefit Malays and Malaysians,” he said.

Commenting on whether the move could be seen as a strategy ahead of upcoming elections, he said opening the door for unconditional unity means those who return to Umno can immediately resume active roles within the party.

“We know that the Johor and Melaka state elections are approaching, but this should not be seen as a weapon to eliminate political opponents.

“Umno has announced that it is without conditions — meaning those who return can contest, hold positions and be active again as usual,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tawfik believes the move will not affect Umno’s relationship with other parties in the Unity Government.

He said there has been no vocal objection from component parties so far, and Umno has already informed the Cabinet about the establishment of Rumah Bangsa.

“I see no issue involving other parties in the Unity Government because they have not openly opposed it,” he said.

He added that the move is also important in efforts to reunite Malays who are currently divided among various political parties.

“Division does not benefit Malays but only serves the interests of disappointed leaders,” he added.