Zahid: State-level differences do not mean BN does not support Anwar's leadership

Differences in political direction among unity government parties at state level do not mean Barisan Nasional lacks support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, according to BN chairman Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Each party in the unity government has the right to determine its own direction at the state level, particularly during elections, he emphasized. This does not negate their support for Anwar at the federal level, which he considers highly.

Zahid dismissed challenges from DAP chairman Gobind Singh Deo, who called for his resignation if he lost confidence in the current government's leadership. BN's ministers have never expressed disagreement with unity government policies during cabinet meetings, and this stance was reaffirmed. Those no longer in positions should accept the decisions and respective directions of their parties, Zahid added.

The tensions among unity government leaders intensified due to the house arrest of former prime minister Najib Razak. DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke resigned as transport minister after a Kuala Lumpur High Court decision. Loke challenged BN ministers to resign instead of continuing criticism of Anwar and the unity government. DAP and BN leaders continue to exchange criticism during Melaka election campaign appearances, with calls for each other's resignations and removal from the federal government.

DAP adviser Lim Guan Eng urged Anwar to remove Umno from the unity government if the party did not withdraw. Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan challenged all DAP ministers to resign if the move was based on principle, rather than just one party leader. Pas deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man suggested Nga Kor Ming and Hannah Yeoh should also resign if DAP was genuinely standing by its principles.