Johor Bersatu deputy chairman Mohd Solihan Badri stated that Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin remaining as Bersatu president would ensure the party’s preparation and strength for GE16, and the integrity of the Bersatu-PAS-Gerakan cooperation as Perikatan Nasional can endure.
He emphasized that Muhyiddin staying would also guarantee the integrity of the Bersatu-PAS-Gerakan cooperation as Perikatan Nasional can endure, as the Pagoh MP was synonymous with Bersatu and Perikatan.
ALSO READ: Go forth and multiply our numbers, members told
Mohd Solihan observed that without Muhyiddin, the two political entities could be affected and even disappoint the hopes coming from the majority of the people towards a major Malay party that supports Islamic leadership in the country.
He further expressed, “To us, he is a statesman that is needed by the people who understand the importance of virtues that a leader must have.”
Appreciating Muhyiddin’s sacrifice, Mohd Solihan remarked that Bersatu’s elected representatives should honor it by staying loyal to the party.
ALSO READ: ‘Wife says okay, so I am staying’
He also expressed gratitude that Muhyiddin has withdrawn his initial decision to not defend the party’s top post in the upcoming internal polls set to be at the end of 2024.
Mohd Solihan stressed that Muhyiddin’s presence in the president’s seat is crucial to ensure that the party does not lose a leader of authority and integrity, and that the Malays have a party that can guarantee to defend and fight for their interests.
He urged Bersatu’s representatives, both MPs and assemblymen, to use Muhyiddin’s sacrifice to spur their spirit and loyalty to the party.
ALSO READ: It was no gimmick, says Muhyiddin
However, Mohd Solihan clarified that despite the hope and desire for Muhyiddin to continue leading the party, Bersatu is not lacking a leader.
He noted, “The former prime minister’s involvement and input is still needed to implement some improvement processes and empowerment in Bersatu.”
During the Bersatu AGM on November 25, Muhyiddin agreed to defend his post as Bersatu president in the next party polls after getting the blessings of his wife Puan Sri Norainee Abdul Rahman.
He denied that his previous announcement not to defend his post at the polls next year was a gimmick to fish for votes, and stated that the “voices calling for me to stay on are too loud to ignore”.
