Bersatu leaders call for Muhyiddin to step down amid internal row

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 10): Internal party disciplinary actions against Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia’s (Bersatu) deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin have drawn strong criticism, with party vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee describing the move as regressive and harmful to the party’s future.

Kiandee, who is also Bersatu Sabah liaison chairman, in a statement said the disciplinary board’s decision to summon Hamzah over old and new allegations undermines efforts to strengthen the party ahead of upcoming elections.

He also raised concerns that several division chiefs, including members of Parliament and state assemblymen supporting Hamzah, are reportedly being called for disciplinary proceedings.

“This reflects a misuse of disciplinary procedures to silence key leaders whose views and feedback are vital for the party’s survival,” he said, warning that public confidence in Bersatu is at risk, with the party increasingly seen as directionless and focused on preserving the power of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and a select group of supporters.

Kiandee criticised the handling of the internal crisis, saying it has festered to the point where recovery may be extremely difficult.

“Tan Sri Muhyiddin has failed to manage the situation effectively, using the party’s remaining strength primarily to defend his position as president and personal ambitions,” he said, adding that Hamzah may have been blocked from potential future leadership.

He called for leadership renewal to rebuild the party’s strength and restore confidence among allies, suggesting that Muhyiddin consider stepping down.

“To restore and rebuild Bersatu’s true strength, including strategic ties with Perikatan Nasional parties, the time has come for Tan Sri Muhyiddin to step down as president,” he said.

Meanwhile Bersatu Penampang chief Francis Mojikon echoed Kiandee’s call, criticising the current leadership for prioritising power preservation over the party’s principles.

He condemned the use of a disciplinary board against members who speak out as authoritarian and said Bersatu needs a comprehensive leadership overhaul.

Francis urged members nationwide to rally behind Hamzah to lead a rebranding and renewal process, creating a stronger political movement genuinely committed to serving the people.

“If we want Bersatu to regain relevance and win the next general election, change must be made now, not tomorrow,” he said.