MUAR: Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin dismissed talk of internal rift within the party, asserting its influence remains strong as its leadership elections get underway.
Speaking when launching the party's Pagoh divisional election, Muhyiddin refuted reports of factionalism within Bersatu, noting that the party has grown significantly since its establishment six years ago.
"Bersatu's record is brief compared to older parties, yet our influence is undeniable," he said, adding the party should not be compared to other political parties established ions ago.
"We have 90 representatives in Parliament and state assemblies, over 200 branches, and nearly 700,000 members. Our rapid growth proves our strength."
Muhyiddin's remarks come amid political analyses suggesting division within Bersatu, especially as the party holds elections for various wings, including Armada, Srikandi, and Srikandi Muda.
Analysts recently claimed that internal fractures are deepening, hinting at potential impacts on the upcoming 2024-2027 term.
Muhyiddin, however, dismissed the concerns as baseless, attributing them to outside observers unfamiliar with party dynamics.
"Those who claim our party is breaking apart don't see the reality on the ground. They are simply against us. From my experience in politics, I see no cause for concern; our leadership's resilience remains intact even in challenging times," he said.
He acknowledged that heightened competition during elections is natural and aligns with democratic processes, emphasising that internal elections strengthen Bersatu's unity.
"During elections, it's typical to see candidates with differing views. This isn't disunity; it's part of democracy. Once elections are over, we rally around the party's goals, not individual agendas,"
Muhyiddin told a press conference after officiating the Pagoh Bersatu Division's representative election, at the Geliga Grisek Complex, here, today.
The Pagoh Bersatu division has seen Muhyiddin, as its chief, and deputy chief Datuk Dr Sharuddin Jamal re-elected unopposed, reflecting stability within his home division.
Muhyiddin urged the public to avoid speculating about the party's future, assuring supporters that Bersatu's commitment to its mission remains steadfast.