Muhyiddin expected to reveal stand on being Umno's pick for MB tomorrow

In an unexpected move, Johor Umno has proposed Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin as the next menteri besar for the state.

Failing which, Johor Umno chief Hasni Muhammad, who is scheduled to have an audience with state ruler Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar on Friday evening, said he would petition the latter to dissolve the state assembly to pave the way for fresh polls.

Contacted for comment, Muhyiddin's aide told Malaysiakini that his boss would address the matter tomorrow.

“Tan Sri was supposed to attend Parliament today but he had another programme. We also had to cancel the programme in Rantau (with regard to Saturday's by-election).

“Insya-Allah (God willing) Tan Sri would comment at a programme tomorrow,” he said.

Earlier, Hasni told Malaysiakini that Johor needs an experienced politician at the helm and those speculated to be the next menteri besar are unqualified for the post.

The post fell vacant after Bersatu's Osman Sapian (photo, below) resigned on Monday.

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad revealed that three to four candidates are being considered but declined to comment on speculation that state exco Sahruddin Jamal is the frontrunner.

Muhyiddin, who is the assemblyperson for Gambir, served as Johor menteri besar from 1986 to 1995. At the time, he was also Johor Umno chief.

Following the last general election, speculation was rife that Muhyiddin was being considered as the first non-Umno menteri besar for Johor.

However, the Bersatu leader said he wanted to give others a chance.

“My names is not on the list (of potential MB candidates). I can give pointers based on my experience, you can even call me a 'mentor' to the new candidate,” he had said.

Muhyiddin, who served as deputy prime minister in the Najib Abdul Razak's administration prior to his removal following differences over the 1MDB scandal, now holds the post of home minister. - Mkini