These grievances are longstanding and have recently surfaced more publicly at party conventions.
PETALING JAYA: Amanah deputy president Datuk Seri Mujahid Yusof Rawa said a three-cornered contest between BN, PH and PN in the Johor state election may not automatically favour BN.
He told theSun the historical strength of BN in Johor could be undermined by poor coordination and negotiation with the state leadership, leading to dissatisfaction within certain factions.
“Some voices within Johor, especially from the PH bloc, have openly stated that if BN refuses to negotiate over seat allocations, they are prepared to contest independently, even if it means clashing with other parties.”
He added that Johor Amanah has expressed dissatisfaction for the past three years, feeling excluded from the Unity government, unlike in other states in which BN and PH work closely together.
“While BN and PH have collaborated in most states, Johor does not seem to share that same experience,” he said, adding that local appointments, such as village heads and administrative roles, have not been handled collaboratively.
“Unlike other states, positions are filled in consultation. In Johor, appointments for village heads and other key roles have not involved PH, leaving many local leaders feeling excluded.”
He said these grievances are longstanding and have recently surfaced more publicly at party conventions.
“It is not something that just happened today. These issues have been raised before, but now they are being voiced more publicly.”
Mujahid acknowledged the complexity of the Johor political landscape, adding that that a three-way contest does not guarantee a BN victory. He said in reference to the 2018 election, PH managed a significant win despite multiple contenders.
“It is clear that a three-cornered fight is not always favourable to BN. A divided opposition could often end up benefiting one another, and the same could happen in Johor if all parties do not come together.”
He emphasised the need for cooperation and strategic planning, adding that the fragmented approach of BN could backfire if it fails to negotiate effectively with other political groups.
“BN needs to realise that Johor is different from other states, and they must take a proactive approach in addressing the concerns of local leaders. If not, the outcome could be a win for neither side, and voters would be the judge.”
During the Amanah National Convention on Nov 8, Johor delegate Ahmad Fadhli Umar Aminolhuda said PH is ready to contest against BN if seat negotiations fail.
“If BN continues to act arrogantly and refuses to cooperate with us, Johor Amanah is fully prepared to mobilise its party machinery,” he said, adding that delegates would ultimately leave seat negotiations to party leadership.
Johor Amanah deputy chairman Datuk Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad recently said the party is prepared to face three-cornered fights in the next state election.
He added that while a “unity government” exists at the federal level between PH and BN, the situation in Johor is different.
