KUALA LUMPUR: Now that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been appointed prime minister, all eyes are focused on who will become his deputies in the Kerajaan Perpaduan Malaysia unity government.
Anwar, in his first press conference as prime minister, had hinted that the two deputy prime ministers would likely come from Barisan Nasional (BN) and Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS).
From BN, Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has been touted as among the likeliest candidates.
Mohamad, also known as Tok Mat, has received backing for the post from Umno leaders, ranging from Negri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun to Umno Youth exco member Datuk Muhamad Muqharabbin Mokhtarrudin.
They believe that Mohamad, who won big in Rembau in the 15th General Election, is widely seen as a calming presence in Umno, and has broad appeal.
Umno president and BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was also among the names mentioned as a possible DPM candidate, having received backing from Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Mohd Razlan Rafii, who said it was only fair for Zahid to assume the post based on the party's hierarchy.
National Council of Professors Council senior fellow Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir said Mohamad appeared to be the best bet.
"Not only was he the Negri Sembilan menteri besar, but his experience in the corporate sector also makes him the best choice for BN."
Jeniri also believed that Zahid's court case could hamper his chances and affect the image of the new administration.
"It would not look good for Anwar if Zahid were to be appointed to the role, as the former had championed an anti-corruption platform all this while.
"It would not reflect well on the new administration if such an individual was to be appointed despite the presence of other experienced and moderate candidates who can be accepted by Malays and non-Malays."
Two names, meanwhile, have emerged from GPS for the post: Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
Jeniri said Fadillah and Nanta had an equal chance. This, he said, was because they were senior members of parliament and also part of the previous cabinet.
"(But) Fadillah has a slight advantage due to his previous position as a senior minister."
He said it now falls to Anwar and GPS chairman Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, who is also Sarawak premier, to identify the best candidate for the job. By Nor Ain Mohamed Radhi