UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has delivered a sharp remark against Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (BERSATU), saying he had long anticipated instability within the party following recent expulsions and suspensions of several key leaders.
Zahid described BERSATU as a “splinter party” formed by former UMNO members, adding that its political relevance would not last.
“I wish them and their leadership all the best. I have no intention of interfering in the internal affairs of this UMNO splinter party,” he said.
“From the beginning, I have said that the lifespan of this political party would not be long. We will see soon what fate awaits them,” he added.
He made the remarks during a press conference after launching the MARA Prihatin Programme at Politeknik Sultan Nazrin Shah on Friday.
His comments come amid ongoing internal turmoil in BERSATU, which recently saw several Members of Parliament and state assemblymen expelled or suspended over disciplinary issues.
Just a day earlier, BERSATU expelled two Kedah state assemblymen and suspended seven other elected representatives for alleged misconduct.
The two expelled assemblymen are Suka Menanti representative Dzowahir Ab Ghani and Sungai Tiang representative Abdul Razak Khamis.
Zahid also hinted that UMNO is open to accepting former members of BERSATU who wish to return, in line with the party’s “Rumah Bangsa” initiative.
He said applications would be considered on a case-by-case basis.
When asked whether stricter entry conditions would be imposed to prevent future party hopping, Zahid said UMNO would maintain an open-door policy.
“As a political party that acts as a ‘home of the nation’, we remain open. We are generous in spirit and welcome anyone, especially among Malays and Muslims, who wish to join,” he said, adding that the party has already seen strong interest from new applicants.
