KUALA LUMPUR – The National Patriots Association (Patriot) has lauded Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi for standing firm against attempts to destabilise the unity government.
This follows Zahid’s recent revelation that he was approached by opposition figures offering him the position of prime minister in exchange for Barisan Nasional leaving the unity government.
In a statement, Patriot’s advisor and founder, Brigadier General Datuk Arshad Raji, commended Zahid for his resolve, describing his rejection of the offer as the right thing to do. “Zahid has further strengthened his position by refusing an anti-democratic and ill-intentioned lure,” Arshad said.
Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional chairman, said during the Federal Territory Barisan Nasional Convention that he would never betray the unity government or its allies, even as he claimed to have faced betrayal in the past.
He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the coalition, which was formed in November 2022 under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership.
Patriot criticised the opposition for persisting in attempts to undermine the government, calling their actions “diabolic” and “mind-boggling.”
The group highlighted the progress made under Anwar’s administration, including Malaysia regaining international recognition and economic stability.
Arshad pointed to Anwar’s successful diplomatic efforts and preparations for hosting the 2025 ASEAN Summit as evidence of Malaysia’s improved global standing.
He questioned why opposition leaders remained intent on disrupting this progress, speculating that their dissatisfaction could stem from recent anti-corruption efforts targeting prominent figures.
“Do they not see the economic benefits of the prime minister’s foreign visits and Malaysia’s regained influence among ASEAN partners and other world leaders?” Arshad asked.
Hamzah denies formal negotiations
Earlier, speculation about a possible alliance between Perikatan Nasional and Barisan Nasional was dismissed by Bersatu deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin as baseless rumours.
He clarified that any discussions between leaders from the two coalitions were informal and lacked official sanction.
Hamzah’s comments came after Zahid disclosed the opposition’s attempt to woo Barisan. Zahid claimed that several MPs had approached him to propose a new coalition, offering four Cabinet positions in return.
However, Hamzah stressed that such overtures did not reflect PN’s official stance, adding that party alliances should be discussed at the highest leadership levels.
Patriot urged all political leaders to set aside their differences and prioritise nation-building.
“The rakyat have repeatedly expressed in social media, online and even mainstream media on the urgent need for all political leaders, regardless of their political affiliation to come together in the spirit of brotherhood and oneness to serve our beloved nation and to secure its future in an increasingly perilous geopolitical setting,” Arshad said.
The group warned opposition parties to abandon their divisive tactics, cautioning that voters may not tolerate such behaviour in the next general election. – November 30, 2024
