Three Ahmads gunning to replace Mukhriz, pro-Najib portal claims

A portal aligned to Prime Minister Najib Abul Razak has begun speculating on Kedah Menteri Besar Mukhriz Mahathir's possible replacements, less than an hour after an open rebellion was announced in the state.

MyKMU.net said the three candidates are Bakar Bata state assemblyperson Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah, Bukit Lada state assemblyperson Ahmad Lebai Sudien and Bukit Kayu Hitam state assemblyperson Ahmad Zaini Zapar.

It added that Mukhriz may be on his way out by Sunday, to be replaced by one of the trio.

Earlier today, Ahmad Bashah, who is also Kedah Umno deputy chief, led several of the state's key Umno leaders in open rebellion against his boss Mukhriz and called on Najib to replace the state's menteri besar.

MyKMU said Ahmad Lebai is seen as a candidate due to his closeness with Najib and fierce criticism of Mukhriz, while Ahmad Zaini who is active in youth movements may be a compromise candidate.

However, it said the frontrunner is still Ahmad Bashah who is seen as a popular candidate.

"Ahmad Bashah was said to be the future menteri besar during the last general election.

"However, when the general election arrived, Najib and (former prime minister) Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced Mukhriz will be the menteri besar candidate.

"When BN successfully recaptured Kedah, Mukhriz was made Kedah menteri besar to fulfill that election promise," he said.

It also claimed that the change of menteri besar is expected to receive the Kedah palace's support.

Mukhriz is being targeted following his father Mahathir's open attempts to remove Najib as prime minister.

Mahathir has accused Najib of various wrongdoings and has vowed not to rest until he is removed from office. -Mkini