KUALA LUMPUR – Bersatu’s Gerik MP Fathul Huzir Ayob has openly criticised several of his party colleagues for their support of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership, in yet another sign that tensions within the Perikatan Nasional (PN) component party continue to escalate.
In a scathing Facebook post, Fathul referred to the MPs as “chickenhearted” and highlighted a growing divide within the party.
Fathul’s post characterised the recent shift in support within his party as a pivotal moment that separates those who remain “Istiqamah” (steadfast) from those who act out of self-interest.
He didn’t hold back, further lambasting the four Bersatu opposition parliamentarians who had campaigned under the PN banner in the last election, but have recently decided to align themselves with Anwar’s ruling government.
“From the beginning we knew that as the opposition, we would be pressured and attacked like this. We are not the only ones who are having a hard time, think of other friends in our congregation who remain faithful and steadfast. If they can, why not us? Remember, allocations do not mean that you will succeed in saving the people,” Fathul said.
“Alhamdulillah, I am proud to be surrounded by strong friends, a lionhearted group. It’s sad to see our friends who are a weak, chickenhearted group.”
Earlier today, Jeli MP Zahari Kechik became the fourth Bersatu lawmaker to pledge his support for Anwar.
Zahari said in a statement today that he is ready to face any disciplinary action from his party.
He said the decision was made after a thorough consideration of the issues faced by the people, including the rising cost of living, as well as constituency development.
His support for Anwar includes declaring support for any policies or initiatives that the government undertakes to restore the nation’s economy and prioritises public welfare.
Bersatu’s Kuala Kangsar MP Datuk Iskandar Dzulkarnain Abdul Khalid declared his support for Anwar on October 12, followed by Labuan MP Datuk Suhaili Abdul Rahman and Gua Musang MP Mohd Azizi Abu Naim.
The other three lawmakers also said that their switch in support was decided after taking into consideration the welfare of their constituents. – November 8, 2023