For now—Under Zahid Hamidi's leadership, weak and fragile UMNO looks very powerful
Despite leading UMNO to convincing victories in the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections, analysts say the bigger test for party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will be sustaining the party’s momentum amid mounting controversies and questions over its direction. FMT interviewed three academicians, and enjoy reading their observation and analysis: Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Professor Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said Zahid remains an asset to UMNO due to his firm grip on the party, ability to manage political alliances and success in keeping the Barisan Nasional lynchpin relevant as a key partner in the federal government. However, he warned that the Bagan Datuk MP’s political baggage was piling up. Sivamurugan said issues that could damage UMNO’s image include the recent dispute over spending at Zahid’s rural and regional development ministry, controversies involving Tabung Haji and Felda, as well as the party’s alleged role in an attempt to remove the Negeri Sembil...