Hamzah Zainudin Backed by Majority of Opposition MPs, Says Saifuddin Abdullah

Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah, Member of Parliament for Indera Mahkota, asserted that Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin deserves to retain his position as opposition leader due to backing from a majority of opposition MPs. Saifuddin clarified that Pas President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang's recent announcement does not signify the party sidelining Perikatan Nasional (PN) but rather aligns with the consensus of the majority of opposition representatives.

Saifuddin highlighted Pas's consistent support for Hamzah, even after his dismissal from Bersatu. He stated that 43 Pas MPs and 19 other MPs supporting Hamzah wish for him to continue as opposition leader, representing approximately 80% of the opposition bloc. This support, he argued, is crucial for maintaining Hamzah's legitimacy.

The Indera Mahkota MP further explained that the political landscape within the opposition bloc has shifted following Pas's decision to sever political ties with Bersatu. He stressed that in a democratic system, the majority voice within the opposition must be respected. Saifuddin contended that accusing Pas of disregarding PN fails to present an alternative candidate with greater support than Hamzah.

Saifuddin concluded that a parliamentary democracy's opposition leader derives legitimacy from the support of the majority of elected officials, not from political perceptions. He dismissed claims of a 'mullah power' emerging if Pas joins the federal government as mere propaganda aimed at instilling fear of the party. The core issue, he reiterated, is whether the majority of opposition MPs still support Hamzah, to which the numbers clearly indicate 'yes'.