PETALING JAYA – The recent Selangor state elections results have carved out a new balance, with the state assembly comprising a mix of representatives from Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional (PH-BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN).
At the forefront of many post-election discussions is the intriguing position of Datuk Seri Mohd Azmin Ali, the de-facto opposition leader and also a former menteri besar of the state.
Azmin's journey is symbolic of the twists and turns in Malaysian politics.
Having served as menteri besar from 2014 to 2018, he then transitioned into the role of economic affairs minister under the truncated rule of Tun Dr Mahathir-led PH government while also being the PKR deputy president.
But it was his starring role in the Sheraton Move that marked his departure from his PKR roots, ultimately leading him to senior ministerial roles under subsequent premiers Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
However, this political trajectory has left Azmin with the “traitor” label by many within and outside PKR – a heavy burden that he carries into his new role now.
While there are evident fractures in his relationship with many in PKR, Azmin's ties with some in PH are still believed to be strong.
Interestingly, second-term menteri besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari was once under Azmin's mentorship. He is now seen to be leading the very faction Azmin created within PKR.
Amirudin’s decision to stay back in PKR and PH has positioned him as a formidable force in Selangor, a state that wields considerable power and is considered the crown jewel of the country.
Projects under scrutiny
However, as the new state assembly takes shape, the ghosts of the past loom large.
Azmin's tenure as menteri besar had seen the initiation of several projects that are now under scrutiny, such as the stadium project which Amirudin inherited.
His alleged association with a quarry concession through proxy companies further adds to scepticism about his leadership of the opposition.
This perceived web of associations and potential conflicts of interest makes it challenging for an Azmin-led PN opposition to effectively hold the government accountable, especially on the very scandals he's purportedly tied to.
Given these issues, it's questionable how effective PN will be as an opposition under Azmin's leadership.
While no political party revels in being in opposition, the role demands undertaking rigorous scrutiny and accountability.
But given PN's track record and its primary focus on winning the next election, it seems that the assembly will see minimal constructive opposition.
Instead, most of PN’s efforts are expected to occur outside of the assembly, focusing on campaigning and public relations, mainly via TikTok.
Polarising figure
A further concern lies in Azmin’s relationship with non-Malay communities.
The “traitor” tag, while resonating within PKR circles, also finds traction among a broader demographic.
His perceived political opportunism has made him a polarising figure among non-Malays, a situation that the opposition will have to navigate carefully.
Many of us know that politicians, regardless of their party affiliations, often engage in political theatre, masking genuine intentions with public performance.
The dance of shifting allegiances, business interests, and personal ties further blurs the lines between genuine public service and self-interest.
While Azmin's journey from governance to opposition in Selangor is symbolic of the shifting sands of Malaysian politics, it's also reflective of deeper issues.
As the state looks ahead, the effectiveness of its opposition, the credibility of its leaders, and the genuine intent behind their actions remain under the microscope.
Azmin's role, marked by both his achievements and controversies, will be a key factor in determining the future political trajectory of Selangor. – The Vibes, September 3, 2023
