Zahid Dismisses BN-PN-GPS-GRS Secret Meeting Claims

CYBERJAYA, July 22 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has firmly dismissed viral social media claims alleging that leaders from Barisan Nasional (BN), Perikatan Nasional (PN), Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) convened a secret meeting.

Speaking to reporters following the 104th Immigration Day celebration here, the Barisan Nasional chairman stated that he had no knowledge of any such gathering and reiterated that the coalition remains steadfastly committed to the unity government until the 16th General Election (GE16).

“I don’t know anything about it. I checked, including with the Home Minister and through my sources, and there was no such meeting. I know nothing about it,” Ahmad Zahid clarified.

The clarification follows speculation circulating across digital platforms claiming that representatives from the four major political blocs were slated to convene a joint press conference at 2:00 PM. The viral posts, which relied on unnamed sources, failed to disclose the underlying purpose or agenda behind the purported briefing.

Addressing separate political developments regarding federal executive authority, Ahmad Zahid emphasized that decisions concerning cabinet appointments or the dismissal of ministers and deputy ministers remain the absolute constitutional prerogative of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

“If the Prime Minister suspects, or has verified information, then it is entirely within his authority. There is no need for anyone to resign on their own,” he stated, noting that executive appointments and removals fall strictly within the Prime Minister’s purview.

Ahmad Zahid’s remarks came after Prime Minister Anwar issued a stern reminder warning ministers, deputy ministers, and statutory body officeholders against utilizing their official positions to attack fellow partners within the federal government while campaigning in state elections.

-NMT