PETALING JAYA: Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad discussed with several party leaders on ways to quit Pakatan Harapan (PH) of which it was a component member, claimed party secretary-general Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin.
The instruction for such a move was issued when the Langkawi member of Parliament was the prime minister.
As part of the steps for the party to eventually quit the pact, it also included undermining public confidence in the DAP, he alleged.
Hamzah said another way was organising the controversial Kongres Maruah Melayu (Malay Dignity Congress).
"I was invited to join Bersatu by Dr Mahathir last year. I have been loyal and tried to follow all his instructions at the time as the chairman of the party.
"After joining Bersatu, there were discussions held from time to time. Dr Mahathir instructed me not only to strengthen the party but also for the people to lose confidence in DAP.
"At the time, I did all the work based on the instructions of the PM at the time. The congress could not have been organised if he did not allow it," Hamzah revealed in a press conference at Bersatu headquarters here today.
He claimed the discussions involving Bersatu's exit strategy from PH took place at Dr Mahathir's residence.
It saw participation of current Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, former Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu and Rural Development Minister Datuk Dr Abd Latiff Ahmad.
He said Dr Mahathir's resignation as the PM also caught everyone in Bersatu by surprise, including Muhyiddin as the matter was not discussed beforehand.
Hamzah said when the Yang di-Pertuan Agong wanted to appoint a new PM last February, everyone worked hard to ensure Dr Mahathir remained the PM.
"However, history has shown that Dr Mahathir could not garner much support.
"It was not me who is dividing the party, but he resigned and was not able to gain back support." he said.
Hamzah said it was sad that Muhyiddin had been accused of hatching the plans.
"Allah has chosen a Prime Minister who can lead the country to replace Dr Mahathir." said Hamzah.