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Questioning Zahid's Attempt to Limit Sanusi's Political Reach

Published July 25, 2026 at 8:32 AM UTC

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Zahid Hamidi's remark that Sanusi should stay in Kedah raises concerns about political double standards and restrictions on democratic participation. In Malaysia's federal system, politicians are free to campaign anywhere, and Sanusi, as a national figure of Perikatan Nasional, has every right to address voters in Negeri Sembilan. Zahid's demand appears to be a tactical move to curb the opposition's influence rather than a genuine concern for governance. UMNO and its allies have frequently campaigned in opposition-held states without similar criticism. By telling Sanusi to go back, Zahid is essentially trying to limit the opposition's ability to reach voters in moderate states. This could weaken democratic competition, which relies on open debate and exchange of ideas. Furthermore, Sanusi's popularity stems from his ability to connect with voters across state lines, and his presence in Negeri Sembilan is seen as a challenge to the status quo. Rather than focusing on Kedah's problems, the opposition argues that Zahid should address issues in his own party. The public deserves a political landscape where all voices can be heard, not one where leaders are told to stay in their own backyard.