Zahid denies rift with Anwar, reaffirms BN’s commitment to political stability

On September 6, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi denied reports of a rift or issues between him and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, emphasizing that Barisan Nasional (BN) is devoted to maintaining the country’s political stability until the end of its term. He affirmed that there were no personal or official problems between him and Anwar, including during Cabinet meetings and official government functions.

Speaking to reporters after attending the Orang Asli Sports Carnival at Educity Sports Complex, Zahid stated that the coalition remains focused on reaching decisions professionally.

A Bloomberg report had previously suggested that tensions were rising between Zahid and Anwar, with shorter meetings preceding recent Cabinet gatherings. The report attributed these tensions to Zahid’s decision for BN to oppose Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the recent state elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan. However, Zahid dismissed these claims, asserting that the coalition’s commitment to staying in the Unity Government until the term’s end aligns with the Umno General Assembly’s resolution.

He underscored the importance of political stability for retaining foreign investor confidence and supporting Malaysia’s economic growth. Zahid reiterated that there were no underlying issues when BN leadership and Anwar were together in Cabinet meetings or at federal level government events.