'Politically persecuted Muhyiddin should remain party president'

The Bersatu Supreme Council will discuss in a meeting tonight whether party president Muhyiddin Yassin should step down from his position amid his ongoing corruption charges.

The meeting will be held on the sideline of a solidarity rally scheduled tonight.

Doubling down on claims of political persecution, Bersatu Supreme Council member Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal said he personally believes Muhyiddin should remain in the position pending the conclusion of the trial.

"I think he should remain because we believe this is a political prosecution.

"Until and unless things are made clear by the court, he should stay and remain as president," said Wan Fayhsal (above), who is also Bersatu Youth chief, during a press conference in Kuala Lumpur after delivering his keynote speech at the wing's fourth annual general assembly.

Wan Fayhsal further alleged attempts by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to bring down Bersatu through political persecution.

“We are disappointed with his (Anwar) actions. 

“He’s struggling to get the illusive Malay support and the easiest way is to nullify Bersatu,” he said.

‘Muhyiddin unlike Najib’

In his speech, Wan Fayhsal reminded 429 delegates gathered at a hall in Gerakan headquarters - Menara PGRM - that Muhyiddin's charges are unlike that faced by former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak who is now in jail.

“I would like to remind you that Muhyiddin is not Najib. 

“He’s far from being involved in one of the world’s biggest financial scandals, 1MDB,” said the Machang MP.

“I believe, this man named Muhyiddin Yassin, his fighting spirit will not waver no matter how hard the challenge. Our president will persevere and we will persevere!” he stressed.

Muhyiddin yesterday claimed trial for four counts of abuse of power and two money laundering charges involving RM232.5 million.

He faces 20 years in jail and a fine five times the amount of gratification involved or RM10,000, whichever is higher, for the abuse of power charges.

Muhyiddin also said he will abide by the Bersatu supreme council’s decision with regard to his position as president.

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