{
  "id": 8125066,
  "title": "Let constitution resolve the Anwar-Zahid political ambiguity",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/let-constitution-resolve-the-anwar-zahid-political-ambiguity",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-17T23:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/opinion/2026/09/18/let-constitution-resolve-the-anwar-zahid-political-ambiguity"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The ongoing disagreements between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi necessitate a clear resolution, according to Selvam Shanmugam, a High Court advocate. While internal disagreements within a coalition government are not inherently improper, Zahid's position as Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet member brings with it a collective responsibility. If Zahid feels his ideological differences with the government's direction are too great, he should consider stepping down from his executive roles. Conversely, if Anwar believes Zahid can no longer function effectively in his administration, the prime minister must be prepared to take action. The Federal Constitution outlines a clear procedure in this matter. Article 43(3) emphasizes collective Cabinet responsibility, and Article 43(5) stipulates the conditions under which a minister's appointment can be revoked by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on the advice of the prime minister. Should Zahid's removal be necessary, it would pertain solely to his executive position and not necessarily to his parliamentary seat. However, it is crucial to note that mere political disagreements or public criticism do not automatically equate to a loss of constitutional confidence, nor do they necessarily mandate a minister's resignation. The issue only becomes relevant if Anwar's majority in the Dewan Rakyat is jeopardized. If Umno continues to back Anwar, the government will persist as long as the prime minister retains the confidence of the majority. However, if Umno withdraws its support and Anwar loses the confidence of the majority, Article 43(4) mandates the prime minister to tender his resignation unless Parliament is dissolved at his request. The ultimate determinant is whether Anwar still commands the confidence of the majority in the Dewan Rakyat. If Zahid believes the government's direction is no longer compatible with his support from within the Cabinet, he should contemplate relinquishing his executive office. Conversely, if Anwar believes Zahid's position renders his continued involvement in the Cabinet untenable, the prime minister should have the integrity to make that decision, allowing Umno to clearly express whether it still supports Anwar's government. This is not an advocacy for instability; it is a plea for clarity and accountability. Zahid should decide whether he remains part of the government, and Anwar should decide whether Zahid should retain his Cabinet position. Subsequently, Umno and the parliamentary numerical strength should reflect these decisions. Malaysia should not continue to languish in prolonged political uncertainty.",
  "summary": "The government may continue so long as the prime minister commands the confidence of the majority in the Dewan Rakyat.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "Let constitution resolve the Anwar-Zahid political ambiguity",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/let-constitution-resolve-the-anwar-zahid-political-ambiguity-8125414",
        "published": "2026-09-17T23:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}