Bersatu assembly sees rising tensions as Muhyiddin cautions members over alleged signature campaign

SHAH ALAM, Sept 7 — Tensions erupted at Bersatu’s annual general assembly last night when a scuffle broke out, highlighting cracks within the party as it gears up for the 16th general election.

The disturbance followed party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s stern reminder to members to respect the party constitution and avoid attempts to oust leaders through signature drives.

Delivering his policy speech at the party’s eighth assembly, Muhyiddin described such moves as unconstitutional, warning that if the president could be toppled in this way, other party leaders could face the same fate. Delegates responded with chants of “Kekal presiden” (Maintain the president) and “Hidup Tan Sri” (Long live Tan Sri).

Moments later, however, shouts of “letak jawatan, Muhyiddin” (resign, Muhyiddin) triggered a scuffle in one section of the hall.

Calling for calm, the former prime minister urged delegates to remain patient and disciplined, stressing that disunity had previously brought down once-dominant parties. He reminded members not to act as “batu api” (instigators) or “batu ronson” (troublemakers), but instead to serve as peacemakers.

“Remember, our party has its constitution and regulations. Obey them if we want our party to remain proper, orderly and peaceful,” he said, adding that unity was critical ahead of the coming polls.

Later, at a press conference, Muhyiddin said he was unaware of the details of the altercation as he had been focused on his speech. He added that his officers would provide a report to confirm whether those involved were party delegates.