Experts: Mat Taib’s return good for Umno

KUALA LUMPUR: The move by Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib to rejoin Umno adds value to Barisan Nasional’s backbone.

Universiti Sains Malaysia political analyst Professor Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said the return of Muhammad, who left Umno to join Pas and then PKR, would impact Selangor’s political arena.

“He has an impact as he used to be a key figure in Selangor, being (a former) menteri besar.

“He is a big personality. This will give Umno moral support and an edge.

“Whether his return will help Umno win Selangor is still too early to be analysed,” he told the New Straits Times.

He said it was a huge loss that the opposition failed to keep those who joined it after leaving Umno.

“When he joined Pas, then PKR, he was not given a position.

“They could have used him as a spokesman due to his popularity, but they let him go.

“Now, there will be questions on whether political parties have deviated from their political ideologies on political personalities.

“His comeback would be a good addition to Umno since he has contributed a lot to it.”

Political analyst Khoo Kay Peng said the former Umno vice-president’s return to the party’s fold was not surprising.

“Most Malay-based parties, in BN or the opposition, have roots in Umno.”

He said Muhammad’s return would give Umno an edge as the opposition did not upgrade itself after the last election.

“Umno may face tough challenges in urban seats, but it can do better in the Malay heartland for a majority of seats.”

Universiti Utara Malaysia senior lecturer in international politics and Asean relations Dr Muhammad Fuad Othman said Muhammad’s return was due to an ineffective opposition.

“Those who left are disillusioned with the opposition.

“They realise that the opposition doesn’t walk the talk and cannot get things done.

“They are disappointed they couldn’t contribute to the people while with the opposition.”

He said many rejoined Umno as it was a well-established party with a good track record.

Muhammad held key posts in Umno, including vice-president (2000 to 2003) and information chief (2008 to 2009).