KUALA LUMPUR, 10 Feb 2026 (The Capital Post)— Internal tensions within Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (BERSATU) have escalated following disciplinary actions initiated against the party’s Deputy President, Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin, prompting a public call for party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin to consider stepping down.
In a press statement dated 10 February 2026, Dr. Ronald Kiandee criticised the party’s Disciplinary Board (Lembaga Disiplin) for bringing both old and new allegations against Hamzah, describing the move as “regressive” and contrary to efforts to strengthen the party ahead of upcoming elections.
Dr. Kiandee also expressed concern over disciplinary actions reportedly taken against division leaders, including Members of Parliament and State Assemblypersons who support Hamzah. He characterised these actions as a misuse of party disciplinary procedures aimed at silencing key leaders from voicing views and feedback for the party’s future.
According to him, the situation risks damaging BERSATU’s image among the public, making the party appear directionless and straying from its original struggle. He further suggested that the party’s focus now appears centred on maintaining Muhyiddin’s leadership and protecting certain groups within the party, potentially at the expense of trust and cooperation with Perikatan Nasional component partners.
Dr. Kiandee argued that Muhyiddin has failed to effectively manage the party’s internal crisis, allowing it to reach what he described as a near irreparable stage. He also alleged that Muhyiddin is using his remaining influence primarily to defend his presidency and personal political ambitions, including blocking Hamzah’s path to future leadership of the party.
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As a way forward, Dr. Kiandee said it may be time for Muhyiddin to consider stepping down as BERSATU president in order to rebuild the party’s strength and reinforce strategic ties within Perikatan Nasional.
He added that his views were expressed in good faith and could be received by a “large-hearted leader,” noting that the stance is consistent with remarks Muhyiddin himself once made in 2008 in Singapore regarding the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
As of now, there has been no immediate public response from BERSATU’s top leadership regarding Dr. Kiandee’s statement. – The Capital Post
