Ahmad Maslan: Umno’s state election moves are strategy, not ‘backstabbing’ of Unity Government partners

Umno’s Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan clarified that the party’s state-level electoral arrangements in several states are strategic decisions to secure Barisan Nasional (BN) victories, not an act of “backstabbing” its Unity Government partners. Maslan noted that there were no agreements between Umno and Pakatan Harapan (PH) in Johor, Negeri Sembilan, and Melaka, unlike in Penang where an agreement exists.

He stated that in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, Umno does not have an agreement with PH, and in Melaka, there is no agreement either. Maslan emphasized that party leaders must choose the approach most likely to deliver the best possible electoral result, especially in states where a three-cornered contest could split Malay votes. He argued that strategic steps taken in Negeri Sembilan were aimed at winning the election, and failure to take such steps would lead to a BN loss.

Maslan also stated that Umno’s Supreme Council meeting on August 28 would discuss the party’s approach in Melaka. He clarified that the significant agreement was at the federal level, which Umno is committed to fulfilling. Maslan dismissed accusations of betrayal, stating that Umno’s state-level strategies did not breach any agreement.

He added that state parties have the right to adopt approaches that maximize their electoral chances. Maslan described the term “backstabbing” as inappropriate for describing political parties’ efforts to safeguard their survival and electoral prospects. He cited DAP’s decision to hold a vote at its party congress as another example of a strategic move.