Malaysia

“Umno may be an option” says former Bersatu leaders against an undecided political future

Wan Ahmad Fayhsal says no meetings have been held to chart next steps after he and 16 others, including Hamzah Zainudin, were sacked from the party, amid speculation of a possible move to Umno.

Updated 5 months ago · Published on 16 Feb 2026 11:43AM

“Umno may be an option” says former Bersatu leaders against an undecided political future
Insiders suggest that if Hamzah rejoins Umno, he may be accompanied by several of the recently sacked Bersatu leaders - February 16, 2026

FORMER Bersatu supreme council member Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal has confirmed that he and a group of 16 other sacked party leaders have yet to decide their next political move, amid speculation that some may join Umno.

“Nothing has been initiated and no meeting has been held. And with the Chinese New Year celebrations, people are busy focusing on the festive celebration. So, let’s wait and see,” Wan Ahmad Fayhsal, the Machang member of parliament, told the New Straits Times.

The remarks come following the dismissal of 17 Bersatu leaders earlier this week for disciplinary violations, a group that included Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin, the Larut MP, Padang Rengas MP Azahari Hasan, and Gerik MP Fathul Huzir Ayob.

Rumours have circulated that Hamzah and several others are considering a return to their former party, Umno, with sources reporting that Hamzah had held talks last year with Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Other insiders suggested that if Hamzah rejoins Umno, he may be accompanied by several of the recently sacked Bersatu leaders.

Commenting on the speculation, Wan Ahmad Fayhsal stressed that no decisions have been made.

“No. Nothing has been decided. And I do not think Umno will be the main choice. There are a few options, as what the rumours have been suggesting. It is too early. Whatever happens, Hamzah also needs to consult first,” he said.

The sacking of the 17 leaders marks a significant shake-up within Bersatu, leaving the future alignment of several high-profile figures uncertain as the political landscape in Malaysia continues to evolve. - February 16, 2026

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