TWO Bersatu assemblymen last night confirmed that they have lost confidence in Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir’s leadership and back the formation of a new state government.

Ayer Hangat’s Juhari Bulat told Bernama that he wants to stay aligned with the party leadership at the federal level.

“The decision was also made so that we at the state level can work alongside Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin, who is also prime minister. We want to follow the federal leadership.”

The state deputy speaker said his move has the support of the grassroots in his constituency.

In a statement, Kuah’s Mohd Firdaus Ahmad said the question of party-hopping does not arise, adding that he is simply sticking with Bersatu’s central leadership.

“Do not be confused or deceived into thinking that we four Bersatu assemblymen have left the party for another. We are still part of Bersatu, and choosing to follow the president’s path and directives.”

Yesterday, 19 of Kedah’s 36 assemblymen said they have lost confidence in Bersatu deputy president Mukhriz’s leadership.

State opposition leader Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said the 19 comprised 15 from PAS, two from Umno, and Azman Nasrudin (Lunas) and Dr Robert Ling Kui Ee (Sidam), both of whom have announced their departure from PKR. – Bernama, May 13, 2020.