Ahmad Faizal: Bersatu's pact with DAP in 2018 to 'save the country' from Najib's administration

KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 — Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) deputy president Ahmad Faizal Azumu said his party cooperated with DAP in the 14th general election “to save the country” unlike Umno.

The former Perak MB told Free Malaysia Today that Umno is going against its slogan of “No Anwar, No DAP” which was introduced by the party president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi during its annual general assembly in 2021.

“History shows that some decisions were made to prevent greater harm to the country, requiring (rival parties) to work together.

“That was what Bersatu did when it was first formed. We worked with DAP, Amanah and PKR to topple Najib’s kleptocratic government,” Faizal was quoted as saying referring to Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

Faizal said Umno’s decision has offended Malay voters who hoped Umno would stand up for the community’s rights.

“(These members) were also hoping for change at the party’s elections, but that did not happen. Umno has now become a party dominated by one or two leaders who determine its direction,” he said.

Bersatu was formed in 2016 led by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and joined Pakatan Harapan (PH) after several months.

Its withdrawal from the coalition played a big role in the collapse of the PH government in February 2020 which subsequently led to the formation of a new government under Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin the following month.