Perak Politics: UMNO, BN not ruling out possibility of new political alignment

KUALA LUMPUR: UMNO and Barisan Nasional (BN) have not ruled out the possibility of a new alignment in Perak in line with the political crisis in the state.

However, UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he hoped the current government under the leadership of the previous Menteri Besar could be maintained.

"However, we know the statement of the secretaries-general of PAS and Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu), so an approach will be taken by UMNO and BN to determine the formation of a new government.

"But it will take into account all political considerations so that the government that will be formed is a government with stronger support.

"Therefore, I will submit a name proposal to the Sultan of Perak for the consent of His Highness who will decide absolutely.

"Because, that is the full power of His Highness to determine who will be consented as the new Menteri Besar of Perak," he said when met by the media at the Istana Kinta compound here today.

Earlier, he had an audience with the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah for almost an hour to inform of the latest political situation and UMNO's stance in the crisis.

Ahmad Zahid said UMNO and BN will look at all possibilities, including working with the parties in Pakatan Harapan (PH).

"We will look at all possibilities. I mentioned as much as possible we keep the previous alignment but if that cannot be done, of course there are adjustments that need to be made for the new alignment.

"All possibilities are there (cooperation with PH). That is subject to the final decision by the party," he said.

Asked if he had discussed with other parties to determine the new coalition government in Perak, he replied: "I attended the UMNO Liaison meeting last night, I met all Perak State Assemblymen (ADUN) representing UMNO.

"Discussions with other parties in Perak have been held by the leaders of UMNO and Perak BN. Meanwhile, I will hold discussions at the central level," he said.

He said once it can be finalised, UMNO will submit the name of the new Perak Menteri Besar candidate.