KUALA LUMPUR – PKR deputy secretary-general Saifuddin Shafi Muhammad believes the appointment of Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar as Opposition Leader could eventually place the PAS leader in the middle of a dangerous internal battle for influence within Perikatan Nasional (PN).
He said the move should not be viewed merely as a parliamentary restructuring exercise, but part of a much bigger political calculation involving who may eventually emerge as the coalition’s prime ministerial candidate in the next general election.
“Everyone knows the position of Opposition Leader today is no longer just about leading debates in Parliament or criticising government policies.
“It is also about who is being prepared and projected as the future face of the coalition,” he said.
Saifuddin claimed Samsuri’s growing prominence could unsettle several factions within PN, especially leaders believed to harbour ambitions of leading the country should the opposition bloc return to federal power.
According to him, Hamzah Zainudin has long been perceived as among the key figures eyeing the country’s top post in any future PN administration.
He added that factions aligned to Mohamed Azmin Ali also remain influential within Bersatu and are unlikely to quietly allow another figure to dominate the coalition’s national narrative.
“The moment Samsuri starts being promoted as a more moderate and widely acceptable national figure, internal tensions will naturally begin to grow.
“That is when the real political manoeuvring inside the coalition becomes more obvious,” he said.
Saifuddin said PAS may see Samsuri as an asset capable of expanding the party’s appeal beyond its traditional support base, but Bersatu may have its own plans to ensure control of the opposition bloc remains in its hands.
“PN may try to project stability and unity publicly, but behind closed doors, the contest over influence and future leadership is becoming increasingly intense.
“Samsuri could eventually become the casualty of competing ambitions within his own coalition,” he added.
He also described Samsuri’s appointment as part of an attempt by PN to refresh its image at a time when several of its senior leaders continue facing public criticism and growing political fatigue.
“But politics can be ruthless.
“The moment someone starts becoming too popular or increasingly viewed as a serious contender, that is also when efforts begin to control, sideline or undermine that person.
“I believe Samsuri will face even greater pressure after this, not only from political opponents but also from within PN itself,” he said. -MalayaDailyToday
