KANGAR: The resignation rumours surrounding Perlis Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli after just 20 months in office are an attempt by certain parties to create a negative perception of the state's leadership, says Perlis Pas Youth chief Haziq Asyraf Dun.
Haziq, who is also the Beseri assemblyman, said there were no imminent changes in the state's leadership.
"There is no news at all, no leadership changes involving the Menteri Besar are happening in this state.
"However, what I observe is that these rumours are being spread by irresponsible parties with vested interests to create a certain perception and spread unfounded claims," he said when contacted today.
The same sentiment was echoed by state Bersatu Tambun Tulang assemblyman Wan Zikri Afthar Ishak, who said the state machinery continues to function as usual.
"To date, nothing has happened regarding the Menteri Besar's resignation, everything is running as usual.
"We are continuing our work as normal here, and what is happening now is merely hearsay," he said.
Earlier, there were rumours of a possible change in the Menteri Besar's leadership, with reports suggesting Shukri might step down by August or September.
However, Shukri, who is also Perlis Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman, previously denied the rumours and claimed to be unaware of their origin.
Shukri, who has been Sanglang assemblyman since the 13th General Election in 2013, was appointed Menteri Besar after PN secured 14 out of 15 seats in the state during the 15th General Election, ending Barisan Nasional's 65-year reign in the state.
Throughout his tenure, Shukri has faced various pressures, including from the state's PN deputy chairman, Abu Bakar Hamzah, who is also the state Bersatu chief, demanding his resignation after he was not appointed as an executive councilor despite having the backing of PN chairman and Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
In May, Shukri's son, Mohd Syafeeq, was charged in the Kangar Sessions Court for allegedly making a false claim of up to RM19,000 related to the supply of mineral water to the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail.
Additionally, Shukri was investigated by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in April for alleged abuse of power.