Bersatu’s secretary-general, Hamzah Zainudin, delivered a firm warning to the party’s members, declaring that immediate sacking would be the consequence for those who contested the ongoing state elections as independent candidates or supported independents as nominators and seconders. This measure, in accordance with the party’s constitution, aims to maintain party discipline and loyalty to the party’s official candidates.
Notably, on July 26, the party had already taken decisive action, expelling one member and suspending the membership of two others for three years due to their actions of boycotting and sabotaging Perikatan Nasional’s campaign in the six state elections. However, further details regarding the expelled members’ identities and specific actions were not disclosed by Hamzah Zainudin.
The warning comes amidst ongoing state elections, during which political parties aim to maintain unity and uphold their candidates’ positions. The recent dismissal of PKR’s Seremban deputy, Rafie Ab Malek, for contesting in the state polls as an independent candidate, reflects the firm stance parties are taking on such matters.
DAP has also issued a similar warning to its members, emphasizing that immediate expulsion would be the outcome for those contesting as independents in the state elections. The party’s vice-president, Nga Kor Ming, stressed that the rules were “very clear,” underlining the party’s commitment to party discipline and loyalty.
The measures taken by these political parties serve as a deterrent against party members contesting as independents and sending a strong message about the importance of party unity and cohesion during crucial election periods. As the state elections progress, political parties are likely to maintain strict disciplinary actions to preserve their organizational integrity and ensure party members adhere to party principles.