PERIKATAN Nasional’s (PN) inability to secure equitable allocations is predicted to prompt more MPs, particularly from Bersatu, to rally behind Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, according to a political observer.

Bukit Gantang MP Syed Abu Hussin Hafiz Syed Abdul Fasal expressed disappointment over the PN’s failure to negotiate constituency development funds on Tuesday (Nov 28), becoming the fifth Bersatu MP to support Anwar.

Council of Professors fellow Jeniri Amir emphasised the need for PN leaders to address internal trust issues instead of focusing on overthrowing the government.

Jeniri suggested that opening doors for negotiations and showing a willingness to compromise could prevent further shifts in support.

“One of the best ways (to stop the shifting of support) is to open the door for negotiations and be ready to compromise. That would be the best method (to negotiate). I don’t understand why PN insists on not negotiating with the government.

“If this is not quickly addressed, it won’t be a surprise if more (MPs) shift support (to Anwar).”

Meanwhile, PN chief whip Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan previously mentioned that negotiations with Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof were halted due to the government’s request for written allocations and specific assurances. However, the details of these assurances were not clarified.

Analyst Azmi Hassan attributed the MPs’ support shift to the leadership crisis within Bersatu rather than sympathy for their constituents. PN chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s announcement to defend his position as Bersatu president in the upcoming party elections, following his earlier desire to step down, has contributed to the uncertainty.

The lack of a clear succession plan during Bersatu’s recent annual general assembly may cause a rift within its Supreme Council.

“The problem is Bersatu’s leadership has lost its direction,” said Azmi.

“The allocation factor is just a cover-up so that MPs are not labelled as traitors to the party. It won’t stop with Bukit Gantang; there might be one or two more (supporting Anwar), especially with Muhyiddin expressing willingness to defend the presidency.” - Nov 30, 2023 

https://focusmalaysia.my/analyst-predicts-growing-support-for-anwar-if-pn-fails-to-engage-in-fund-negotiations/