TAN Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, President of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), is entering a decisive phase of his political career amid an internal party crisis that threatens to determine whether he retains relevance or disappears as a major political figure.
Political analyst Dr Ahmad Zaharuddin Sani Ahmad Sabri described the next 90 days as “critical” for Muhyiddin, warning that inaction could see the former Prime Minister’s career gradually vanish.
“Muhyiddin is not merely facing an ordinary leadership crisis; ironically, he is fighting for his political survival, which will determine whether he is remembered as a statesman or merely a footnote in the country’s history,” he told Sinar Harian.
Dr Ahmad Zaharuddin identified internal party actors, rather than external rivals such as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim or DAP, as the biggest threat.
He said a faction within Bersatu is orchestrating a conspiracy using Deputy President Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin as a “trojan horse” to challenge Muhyiddin’s leadership.
“If Muhyiddin does not act now, his political career will slowly disappear,” he added.
He recommended immediate strategies for Muhyiddin, including purging toxic elements from the party, publicly explaining any dismissals to reduce misinformation, and activating internal intelligence networks to monitor leaks and identify conspirators.
Dr Ahmad Zaharuddin also suggested promoting competent young leaders to rebuild Bersatu and reinforce party structures.
“Muhyiddin has two options: either assign Hamzah to a prestigious position but without power, or make Hamzah an ally because he has strong grassroots support. This would show that Muhyiddin is highly confident and unafraid of competition,” he said.
The analyst further urged Muhyiddin to strengthen ties with Pas and mobilise grassroots support through large public gatherings to demonstrate backing from party members and the electorate.
He warned that if conventional strategies fail, more extreme measures—such as constitutional amendments to consolidate presidential power, emergency party votes, and loyalty tests—could be necessary, though these carry significant risk.
Dr Ahmad Zaharuddin estimated a 60 per cent chance of success if the recommended strategies are implemented, compared with only 20 per cent if Muhyiddin continues with current approaches.
“Muhyiddin must choose whether he wants to be remembered as a statesman or as a fighter who battles with full determination,” he said. - October 30, 2025
