Umno Veteran moots 'middle path' to resolve Johor clash

Debates surrounding a call to form a state coalition government in Johor appear to have reached an impasse after repeated resistance by the state Umno leadership.

However, an Umno veteran leader has proposed a “middle path” as a potential solution and urged leaders from the government's component parties to have a “big heart” and accept the plan.

Umno Veterans secretary Mustapha Yaakub said a coalition government in Johor could be established without reshuffling the existing state government leadership structure under Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

Instead, Mustapha (above) proposed that the involvement of parties other than BN in Johor be considered in state government agencies and local authorities.

“In my view, a unity government can be established in Johor, but there is no need to reshuffle the exco lineup.

“Perhaps it is possible to involve agencies under the state government, including local authorities such as the appointment of councillors,” he said when contacted by Malaysiakini.

Just a day after BN’s victory in Mahkota, Amanah Youth chief Hasbie Muda renewed a call for Pakatan Harapan elected representatives to be formally appointed as a part of BN’s state administration.

However, Umno rejected the call, with leaders like party youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh reportedly saying there was no need to do so, given the performance of Onn Hafiz’s administration.

‘Don’t put pressure on MB’

Akmal also said the present momentum should continue until the end of the administration’s term.

“Don’t put pressure on the menteri besar because his leadership has proven to be very good in carrying out the responsibility of looking after the state of Johor,” he was quoted as saying.

Mustapha, however, said his proposed solution would require graciousness from all parties concerned.

“In order to realise (the proposal), all parties need to be gracious, and the important thing is not to interfere with the existing state government administration,” he said.

Previously, Mustapha also warned that clashes between Harapan and Umno could jeopardise the coalitions’ chances in GE16.

Learn from Mahkota voters, DAP leader tells 'dungu' politicians

Johor Umno Youth chief 'ungrateful' for discrediting Chinese votes - Tiong

Chinese turnout in Mahkota not as low as some claim - Johor DAP chief

Mahkota results provide friendly-fire ammo for BN

'Not a hero' Akmal shares article which crowns him 'hero of BN'