Zahid still an Umno asset, but baggage piling up, say analysts

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi faces a critical juncture as the 2024 general election approaches, with analysts raising concerns about his ability to sustain the party's recent momentum amidst mounting controversies. Despite leading Umno to victories in the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections, the party still grapples with issues that could harm its image and direction.

Sivamurugan Pandian, a professor at Universiti Sains Malaysia, notes that Zahid remains an asset to Umno due to his firm grip on the party and his skill in managing political alliances. However, he warns that Zahid's political baggage is increasing, including issues related to spending at his ministry, controversies involving government-linked companies Tabung Haji and Felda, and accusations of involvement in attempts to remove Negeri Sembilan's ruler.

While Zahid's leadership may not be solely responsible for these issues, they have undoubtedly added to his political baggage.

Jayum Jawan of Universiti Putra Malaysia suggests that while Umno's recent state election successes have raised hopes for a comeback, the party faces uncertainty over its direction. The coalition is working with Perikatan Nasional in Negeri Sembilan and remaining allied with Pakatan Harapan at the federal level, creating confusion among supporters about where Umno is headed. He also points out that Zahid's lack of clear strategies for sustaining the party's electoral gains poses a significant challenge.

Syaza Shukri of the International Islamic University Malaysia confirms that Zahid has demonstrated a willingness to defend Umno's interests even as the party enters a federal alliance with the People's Justice Party (PH). However, she remains uncertain about Zahid's true stance towards the unity government. The recent controversies surrounding Umno further complicate the party's future, prompting questions about whether it is genuinely reforming or merely continuing "business as usual."