ALLIANCES have often shifted and changed with the winds of opportunity and need in Malaysian politics.
The latest drama unfolding is the possible candidacy of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in the Kemaman parliamentary by-election under the banner of PAS.
This has raised much speculation and speaks volumes about the changing dynamics within the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition.
Dr Mahathir, once a heavyweight in Umno and subsequently in Bersatu, has had a history of shifting allegiances and causing ripples in the political scene.
A man of his stature and influence undoubtedly carries weight.
But with weight, comes the gravitational pull of his politics and his past.
Dr Mahathir’s political journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride for Malaysia.
Having served twice as the prime minister, first from 1981 to 2003 and then again from 2018 to 2020, he wielded much influence over the country’s political scene with strategic moves and bold decisions.
One of the most significant turning points was his departure from Umno in protest against the leadership of then prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, citing concerns over corruption and governance issues.
Dr Mahathir’s exit was followed by the formation of Bersatu, which was founded with the aim of providing an alternative to Umno, and it was part of the Pakatan Harapan coalition.
He then became a driving force behind the opposition’s efforts to challenge BN’s grip on power and eventually led it to the historic victory in 2018.
The defeat of BN ended their decades-long rule and marked a significant shift in Malaysian politics.
However, his resignation in February 2020 led to the collapse of the PH government and the formation of a new coalition, PN, led by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
Mahathir then left Bersatu and formed yet another party, Pejuang.
However, in the 2022 general elections, he suffered a humiliating defeat in Langkawi, when he even lost his deposit.
New beginning or end?
Now, his association with PAS, a party he has been a vocal critic of in the past, brings into question the motivations and the potential consequences of this alliance.
It is curious how Bersatu now seems to be giving him more of a platform via PAS rather than directly.
One could argue that with Dr Mahathir in a strengthened position, PAS stands to benefit greatly.
They acquire not just a strong political figure but also the massive Malay electorate that Dr Mahathir wields influence over.
His political manoeuvres over the years have shown a pattern: he tends to leave parties weaker than when he joined.
His exit from Umno saw a significant decline in the party’s popularity, and Bersatu might also be heading the same way.
The fact that Muhyiddin supports Dr Mahathir’s role in PN indicates an attempt to appease or perhaps harness the former prime minister’s influence. But at what cost?
If history is of any indication, Dr Mahathir's alliance with PAS might not bode well for Bersatu in the long run.
It may indeed be the beginning of the end if Bersatu continues to operate in Dr Mahathir’s shadow. Furthermore, one has to wonder about the longevity and sincerity of this alliance.
The elder statesman’s return to the political arena as an advisor to PAS-led state governments and the possibility of his candidacy in the Kemaman parliamentary by-election raises the question if Bersatu is becoming beholden to PAS.
This also hints at the potential challenges and power dynamics within the PN coalition.
If PAS gains more prominence with Dr Mahathir’s involvement, it could shift the balance of power within the coalition, further weakening Bersatu’s position.
The future of Bersatu remains uncertain in light of these developments.
While Dr Mahathir’s association with PAS may yield short-term gains, such as potential victories in upcoming by-elections, the long-term consequences are less clear.
If history serves as a guide, Bersatu may need to tread carefully with regards to Dr Mahathir as the unity of PN coalition may also face challenges.
Only time will tell if Bersatu has taken note of the past or if they are heading down a path of self-weakening, overshadowed by the giant shadow of Dr Mahathir. – The Vibes, October 6, 2023
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