Zahid Hamidi's statement that Sanusi should stay in Kedah is a reasonable expectation of accountability for a state leader. As Menteri Besar, Sanusi has a responsibility to address pressing issues in Kedah, such as water shortages and economic development. Instead, he has been spending time campaigning in Negeri Sembilan, which critics see as neglecting his duties. Zahid's call reflects a broader principle: leaders should prioritize their own constituents before engaging in politics elsewhere. This is not about limiting political freedom but about good governance. Voters in Kedah deserve a chief minister who is present and focused on their problems. Moreover, cross-state campaigning by opposition figures often carries risks of inflammatory rhetoric, which can strain federal-state relations. By telling Sanusi to return, Zahid is also reminding the public that every leader must answer to the people who elected them. In a federal system, it is natural for state leaders to concentrate on their own domain. This perspective is shared by many within the unity government who see Sanusi's frequent travels as a distraction from Kedah's real challenges.
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Supporting Zahid's Call for Sanusi to Focus on Kedah
Published July 25, 2026 at 8:32 AM UTC