Bersatu declares 'No Anwar, No PH' amid rapid changes in political landscape

Bersatu today strongly denied claims that it would return to Pakatan Harapan (PH), as the ruling coalition's lynchpin party PKR grapples with infighting and a silent revolt reminiscent of its split more than six years ago.

This comes amid rumours and speculation that Bersatu, whose exit from PH in 2020 led to the fall of the government at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, was in discussions to rejoin the coalition led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim following a purge of several of its leaders in recent months.

"Do not be deceived by the devil's evil whispers seeking to hinder Bersatu's progress. News from malicious sources must be investigated and verified first. Slander intensifies as Bersatu grows stronger with the support of the people and professionals," said Bersatu secretary-general Azmin Ali.

He also denied that there were any negotiations with Anwar.

"Bersatu also rejects the lie that there have been meetings and discussions between Bersatu and PKR leaders for the purpose of forming a cooperation with PH," said Azmin, the former PKR deputy president whose fallout with Anwar culminated in an exodus of tens of thousands from PKR in 2020, drawing them into Bersatu, which later went on to form the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition with PAS.

He also vowed that the party would defend its current cooperation in PN.

Azmin said rumours that the party was considering political cooperation with Anwar were the work of politicians bankrupt of the values of their struggle, adding that it was part of a "coordinated campaign of lies" in an attempt to cover up an alleged secret meeting known as the "Bangkok Move".

The phrase refers to claims by Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin earlier this year that his sacked deputy, Hamzah Zainuddin, had held discussions with Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in Bangkok to form a new political alliance.

Azmin said Bersatu's image as a "moderate, inclusive, progressive and people-centred" party continued to be its strength.

"The Bersatu brand is attractive to Malaysians, in addition to the experience and performance of Bersatu leaders, especially Muhyiddin Yasin, who is excellent, has been tested, and has proven successful in managing and administering the country effectively," he added.