As the Umno supreme council election looms closer, the political future of incumbent vice-president Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein looks to be in doubt as he is no longer seen as a grassroots favourite. Although the voting trend in last Saturdays polls of the three wings indicated the incumbents having a higher chance in staying in power, this Saturdays scenario could be different with indications of the grassroots throwing their weight behind a newcomer. Hishammuddin is seen as a weak minister, especially when he held the home ministry portfolio, said Selayang Barisan Nasional information chief Hasnal Rezua Merican when contacted by The Star Online. Hasnal Rezua described Hishammuddin as a play it safe leader in policy-making decisions and not a prompt problem-solver. For example, he wasnt firm in taking a stand against the Bersih protesters and those who broke the law, compared to the current Home Minister, Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, he said. He added that the candidates performance in Cabinet would be a key indicator in determining the votes from the grassroots. Word from the ground tell me that they will likely retain two incumbents, Zahid, because he is vocal and opinionated and Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal, as he receives huge support from Sabah, his home state, he said. And the most favoured candidate with the potential to unseat Hishammuddin, said Hasnal, is none other than the youngest candidate in the race, Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir. Mukhriz is seen as someone who is able to bring changes within Umno and he is capable in rejuvenating the party, he said. The son of former premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad suits the delegates mood, opines Hasnal. Mukhriz is considered an ideal candidate among the youth because he is at the beginning of his political career unlike the rest, said Hasnal. Sharing the same sentiments, Anuar Basiran from Sepang Umno division sees a change in the voting trend. However, we would like to maintain some of the incumbents because we still need experienced leaders. Unfortunately, Hishammuddin will not be on the list, he said, also citing his failure as a home minister. Unlike Zahid, Hishammuddin made no impact when he held a ministerial portfolio. He even failed to glamourise the Youth and Education ministry while he was in charge of them. We need to give opportunities to those who are capable in performing, he said, also referring to Mukhriz as a new hero among the grassroots. New-elected Puteri exco member Noor Aieza Hassan of the Bayan Baru division also cited Hishammuddins weakness in countering attacks made by the opposition. He doesnt seem to be very firm with the opposition. Zahid, on the other hand, is more vocal than him, she said when contacted. Although many have voiced their support for a Zahid-Mukhriz-Shafie team, Noor Aieza said one should not underestimate the influence of former Malacca chief minister Tan Sri Ali Rustam. He is an old timer and he has been engaging with the grassroots for the longest time. He certainly has that personal touch, she said. She said Mohd Alis background as a Community Development Department (Kemas) director would be an advantage as most grassroots could identify him with. He is someone that does his job, is outspoken and doesnt lose touch with the people at the bottom, she said. Noor Aeina said personally, she would like to see the team of Zahid, Ali and Mukhriz to lead for the next term. We, the grassroots, will support those who are close to the people and at the same time fight for the rights of the Malays. These three leaders certainly have them, she said. The vice-presidency race is expected to be a close fight this Saturday as three contenders, Mukhriz, Ali and former Negri Sembilan mentri besar Tan Sri Isa Samad are challenging the incumbents, Zahid, Hishammuddin and Shafie.
Posted on: Fri, 18 Oct 2013 08:36:21 +0000
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