Internal Turmoil in Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia Following Leadership Changes

The recent expulsion of Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin from Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) has sparked significant internal conflict within the party. Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, the party president, stated that he acted in good faith to preserve the integrity of Bersatu. He accused Hamzah of sabotaging the party's unity and objectives, claiming that despite efforts to reconcile differences, Hamzah's actions were detrimental to the party's stability. This decision was made during a special meeting of the Bersatu supreme leadership council on February 14, 2026, where Muhyiddin emphasized that disciplinary measures are essential for maintaining party discipline, particularly against senior leaders.

Bersatu holds Supreme Leadership Council meeting at Muhyiddin's houseThe Straits TimesHamzah’s sacking reflects Muhyiddin’s desperation, says Bersatu ex-information chiefMore Bersatu members sacked with immediate effect

The disciplinary board's decision to expel Hamzah and 16 other leaders was announced on February 13, 2026, following allegations of internal sabotage. The board cited violations of Clause 9.1.4 of the party constitution as the basis for these expulsions. The situation reflects a broader struggle within Bersatu, as the party faces increasing scrutiny and challenges to its leadership. In light of these events, Muhyiddin appointed Datuk Mohd Radzi Jidin and Datuk Seri Ahmad Faisal Azumu to fill the deputy president position vacated by Hamzah.

Hamzah’s sacking reflects Muhyiddin’s desperation, says Bersatu ex-information chiefThe Straits TimesMore Bersatu members sacked with immediate effectBersatu holds Supreme Leadership Council meeting at Muhyiddin's house

Former Bersatu Information Chief Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan characterized the expulsion of Hamzah as an act of desperation by Muhyiddin. He suggested that the manner in which the dismissal was communicated—directly by Muhyiddin—indicated a consolidation of power and a lack of support for the president within the party. Wan Saiful claimed that grassroots support for Hamzah remains strong, contrasting with the limited backing for Muhyiddin, which he attributed to the appointments made by the president.

Hamzah’s sacking reflects Muhyiddin’s desperation, says Bersatu ex-information chief

Muhyiddin defended his actions by stating, “I acted in good faith for one purpose – to ensure that Bersatu remains united, strong, and able to achieve the noble aims and objectives of the party’s struggle.” He called for calm among party members and expressed a commitment to restoring unity within Bersatu. The disciplinary board's actions were framed as necessary steps to protect the party's future and uphold its constitutional integrity.

The Straits Times

There are conflicting perspectives regarding the internal dynamics of Bersatu. While Muhyiddin asserts that his leadership is aimed at preserving party unity, critics like Wan Saiful argue that his actions reflect a desperate attempt to maintain control amid dissent. Additionally, the exact nature of the alleged sabotage by Hamzah and others remains unclear, with no detailed public accounts provided by the disciplinary board.

Hamzah’s sacking reflects Muhyiddin’s desperation, says Bersatu ex-information chief

As the situation unfolds, the expelled members, including Hamzah, have the right to appeal their dismissals within 14 days. The ongoing internal strife within Bersatu raises questions about the party's future direction and leadership stability as it navigates these challenges.

More Bersatu members sacked with immediate effect