ALLEGATIONS that former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, has withdrawn support from the Unity Government could be seen as part of a broader political effort to undermine his position within Umno and Barisan Nasional (BN), political analysts said.
Dr. Hussain Yusri Zawawi, a political analyst from Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), told Sinar Harian that the claims highlight a unique aspect of Ismail Sabri’s political standing. As the only Umno leader to have held the country’s top position without serving as party president, his situation is historically unusual in Malaysian politics.
"Given that Ismail Sabri is not the Umno president, any speculation about his stance towards the government could easily be manipulated by those with vested interests," Dr. Hussain said.
"Such claims could either be used to curb his influence or to test BN’s loyalty within the current coalition government."
Despite not holding the Umno presidency, Ismail Sabri retains significant influence within the party, particularly among members who support a more progressive and pragmatic approach to politics.
His position in BN is also seen as crucial in maintaining the stability of the Unity Government, and any shift in BN's support could have major repercussions on the country's political landscape.
"Ismail Sabri’s continued relevance in any discussion regarding the stability of the government highlights the fact that his political future is closely tied to his ability to adapt to changing political dynamics and maintain his standing both among the public and within the political establishment," Dr. Hussain added in his comments to Sinar Harian.
Ismail Sabri recently denied claims that he, along with 13 other BN Members of Parliament, had withdrawn support from the Unity Government, as circulated on social media.
On March 17, BN’s Secretary-General, Datuk Seri Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir, also dismissed the rumours, rejecting any suggestion that 14 Umno MPs had pulled their backing from the government.
Zambry described such claims as efforts to destabilise the unity among government representatives, affirming that full support remained in place for the government and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership.
Turning to Ismail Sabri’s political future, Dr. Hussain suggested that three key factors would determine the former Prime Minister’s trajectory.
"Firstly, his position within Umno will play a crucial role. If Ismail Sabri can regain his influence within the party, he could emerge as an alternative leader for those advocating reform within Umno," he explained.
"Secondly, national political dynamics will influence whether he continues to be part of the governing coalition or opts for a more independent political stance. Should instability increase within the Unity Government, Ismail Sabri’s name may be put forward once more as a potential compromise candidate for any political alliance seeking balance," Dr. Hussain continued.
"Finally, public perception will play a pivotal role. If he is able to maintain his image as a moderate leader prioritising political stability and the welfare of the people, Ismail Sabri could find himself in a strong position for a return to national politics in future elections," he added. – March 24, 2025
