Standing united: (from left) Hamzah, Muhyiddin, Azmin and Datuk Seri Rina Harun at the Bersatu General Assembly in Shah Alam, Selangor. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
SHAH ALAM: With his knack for survival, Datuk Seri Azmin Ali seems to have as many lives as a cat.
At the height of his political career, he was a key player in shaping national politics, often described as one of the most influential figures in the Opposition.
But after a dramatic fall from grace, losing his Gombak parliamentary seat in the 15th General Election and spending the past two years keeping a relatively low profile, many were quick to write him off.
With no significant role in Bersatu at the national level during that time, Azmin largely kept to himself. Until now, that is.
He has once again found a way to swing back, this time as the newly minted secretary-general of Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional.
Delivering his speech at the party’s annual general meeting yesterday, Azmin struck a tone reminiscent of his PKR days – one that reflects a renewed focus on his political career.
His appointment comes as Bersatu faces growing challenges in expanding its grassroots influence.
For years, some party members had criticised Azmin for his limited engagement at the ground level.
Insiders suggest this was not by choice but rather a limitation imposed by his previous role as Selangor state chairman, which restricted his focus to the state.
“Without a national position, he lacked the platform to address the party’s broader base,” said a party insider.
Now with his official role as secretary-general, Azmin has pledged to fill the gaps left by his earlier absence.
“I pledge to go on the ground across Malaysia, strengthen the grassroots and increase memberships and branches,” he said in his speech yesterday.
However, not all in Bersatu are convinced of Azmin’s ability to make a meaningful impact.
“I look forward to seeing what he has in mind to increase our membership, but I doubt it will be anything new,” said another insider.
“It is difficult to work with Azmin. He is not that friendly to all of us. He always keeps things to himself and his so-called ‘kartel’ gang – the ones who were originally from PKR whereas (then secretary-general) Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin is someone who everyone can get along with.”
According to Perikatan insiders, Azmin had initially aimed for the deputy presidency – now held by Hamzah who won the position uncontested – but party leaders believed it was too early for him to contest.
“He is capable of working at the national level, as seen during his PKR days when he took on significant responsibilities in Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s absence.
“But in Bersatu, it is more appropriate for him to first focus on connecting with the grassroots as secretary-general,” said another source.
Party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has tasked Azmin with managing operations at both the party and coalition levels.
While his ability to fulfil this role will be watched closely, many see it as a crucial test of his ability to rebuild his influence.
Whether Azmin ultimately aims for the deputy presidency or higher, his current role will be a make-or-break moment in determining whether the maverick politician can solidify his comeback or fade into political obscurity.
