UMNO grassroot members have placed their hopes on deputy president Mohamad Hasan to restore the party’s image after its defeat at the 14th general election coupled with recent defections of 17 lawmakers.

They told The Malaysian Insight that Mohamad, who was former Negri Sembilan menteri besar, has a “clean image” and has not been hit with scandals yet.

Umno Pokok Sena division member Ramli Chik said Mohamad, popularly known as Tok Mat, still has a clear profile.

“He can restore the party’s image. Who else is there anyway?” Ramli said.

“It all depends on Tok Mat now.”

Wanita Umno Lenggong chief Zanariah Din said the present members of Parliament in the party will assist Mohamad in expanding his influence.

“In our area, Tok Mat is not really known. But he will be helped by other MPs to spread his influence. He seems ‘cleaner’ and can help,” she said.

Umno Supreme Council member Dira Abu Zahar described Mohamad as an “organised individual” who will be able to reorganise the party’s operations.

However, Norhisham Abdul Mutalib from Umno Batu division, said that while some grassroot members have confidence in Mohamad, they are still unsure if he is able to improve the party’s situation.

He also said that Mohamad still has issues with the Rantau state seat.

“Tok Mat is a nice guy and it seems like everybody likes him but I’m not sure whether he can restore the party’s image.

“We have confidence in him but his position, now even his state seat (Rantau) is in question. I’m not sure if he can bring us out from this mess,” Norhisham said.

On November 16, the Election Court in Seremban ruled that Mohamad’s victory in the Rantau state seat was invalid and ordered an immediate by-election.

Mohamad filed an appeal against the court’s ruling. The Federal Court has fixed February 18 next year to hear the appeal.

Yesterday, Zahid announced that he had appointed Mohamad to perform the duties of party president. Zahid said he was leaving it to Mohamad to run the party to stop more Umno lawmakers from leaving.

Political analyst Awang Azman Awang Pawi, however, said the problem does not lie in the top leadership.

He said there is a lack of dynamic leadership among the MPs, assemblymen and at the division levels.

“Tok Mat is able to fulfil the duty as president and clear Umno’s name but it also depends on the support from mid-level Umno leadership who have to abide with the party’s direction, ideology and struggle,” he said.

Political analyst Associate Professor Jeniri Amir said no individual in Umno can save the party.

“You need someone very strong, some in the mould of Dr Mahathir Mohamad (Prime Minister and Bersatu chairman).

“Right now it (Umno) is very toxic, no credibility. So you need a credible leader to make it attractive,” Jeniri added. – December 19, 2018.