As his father continues to unleash incendiary criticisms at Najib Abdul Razak, Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir is feeling the heat .

Raising the temperature, an Umno website said Mukhriz has no choice but to express support for the prime minister, failing which Kedah Umno could witness a power struggle.

As the Kedah menteri besar and state Umno chief, an article published on MyKMU.net argued, Mukhriz should stand behind the Umno president and prime minister.

"Mukhriz does not represent his personal view. He represents all of Kedah Umno, and therefore it would be inappropriate for him to focus on his personal stand."

Based on the questions raised by his father Dr Mahathir Mohamad regarding 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB), the writer said Mukhriz could seek a full explanation from the federal government.

'Better for Mukhriz to be politically wise'

"It is better (for Mukhriz) to be 'politically wise' for the interest of the people in this issue.

"Issues which are 'hearsay' about 1MDB and Sirul Azhar Umar (who was convicted of murdering Altantuya Shaariibuu)... should not be believed too much."

However, the writer said if Mukhriz intended to back his father, then he must be aware of the negative consequences in Umno, especially in Kedah.

"I am certain he is aware of the consequences. Apart from those which would affect him on a personal level, he might have to face the prospect of resigning as Kedah Umno chief and menteri besar.

"Who stands to lose as a result of this? Apart from Mukhriz, those in Umno and the people of Kedah would also lose their 'icon of hope'."

"I am confident that if Kedah Umno refuses to back the president (Najib), there would be a leadership crisis in the state.

"This would lead to a split in Kedah Umno and Kedah Umno would be seen as weak. This would affect the confidence of the people (in the state chapter)."

However, the writer also acknowledged that Mukhriz is in a tough position, with regard to whether to back his father or Najib.

"If Mukhriz backs his father, he could be accused of being ungrateful, betraying the president, and dividing Umno as well as being labelled 'papa's boy'.

"But if he supports Najib, then he would be seen as an ingrate son and someone who is crazy about positions."

Mukhriz has already faced a call, from Kedah Umno state assemblyperson Ahmad Lebai Sudin, to resign if he does not back Najib.

Najib's cousin and Umno vice-president Hishammuddin Hussein warned that Mukhriz would have failed as a leader if Kedah Umno splits over this issue.

Mukhriz has announced that Kedah Umno's stand on the ongoing spat would be revealed on April 24.

In a related development, PAS central committee member Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad called on Mukhriz to emulate Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin.

In a tweet, he noted how Khairy had urged Najib to explain the issues raised by Mahathir.

Following a closed-door meeting between the prime minister and Umno Youth on Monday, Khairy said the wing was satisfied with Najib's explanation and expressed support for him.

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