AHMAD Zahid Hamidi’s appointment to deputy prime minister will allow him to regain his influence and power base in Umno after being blamed for Barisan Nasional’s poor performance in the general election, analysts said.

They told The Malaysian Insight that Zahid could now stride confidently into the Umno polls without being pressured to step down.

Political observer Sayuti Omar said Anwar Ibrahim was right to appoint Zahid as his deputy to ensure the stability of his unity government.

“Zahid’s position in Umno will surely get stronger even though he faces many court charges. It is Umno’s tradition that when you get a position in the cabinet, especially a top position like deputy prime minister, you will get the support you need.

“This will also strengthen the government led by Anwar. It brings stability and it is a win-win situation for Anwar and his old friend Zahid.

“Yes it does not look good on paper but it is the best solution and we have to accept it to allow the government to function,” said Sayuti.

Zahid is one of two deputy prime ministers chosen by Anwar but his appointment has received mixed reactions from the public as the BN chief faces 47 graft charges.

Zahid is also the rural and regional development minister.

It is widely felt that Zahid’s appointment contradicts Anwar’s anti-corruption stance, while others viewed the pick as a necessary evil to ensure stability in a government made up of political rivals.

In a Facebook post following his appointment, Zahid said cabinet appointments should not be viewed as the “spoils of war” but a huge responsibility.

The Umno president said he was humbled to be appointed to the position.

 Good for Zahid

Academic Dr Mazlan Ali said Zahid’s prospects looks bright as he enters Umno polls next year.

“He will get the support he needs. Because in Umno, when you hold an important portfolio, members, division leaders and so on will back you.

“This is especially important now when Zahid is receiving a lot of pressure from many Umno leaders to resign. Zahid has an advantage and will get more resources. His future is bright,” said Mazlan.

Several BN and Umno leaders urged Zahid to step down days after the coalition lost badly in the general election. Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi was among those calling Zahid to resign, saying it was clear the Malays have rejected Umno.

Kota Raja Umno Youth chief Sheikh Weshal Sheikh Ahmad said Zahid must take full responsibility for BN’s defeat.

Khairy Jamaluddin also called for Zahid to relinquish his post. The former health minister said Umno reform should start immediately.

MCA secretary-general Chong Sin Woon said his party had lost confidence in Zahid and urged him to make way for someone new to lead the coalition.

Former MIC vice-president C. Sivarraajh urged Zahid to “take a rest and let others lead”.

Meanwhile, Hisomuddin Bakar of Ilham Centre said Zahid and his faction would do well in the party polls next year.

“Zahid’s camp can go into Umno polls with confidence. If Zahid had not been appointed to the cabinet or if BN had decided not to join the unity government, Zahid’s days would have been numbered.

“But with Zahid as DPM, Umno can regain its strength after GE15 loss,” said Hisomuddin. – December 4, 2022.