Why is PAS gaining significant ground against Umno in Kedah?

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PAS's Growing Influence in Kedah Outpacing Umno

PAS is experiencing a substantial surge in popularity in Kedah, potentially leading to Umno losing a significant number of parliamentary seats in the upcoming general election. This shift indicates that the majority Malay electorate in Kedah appears committed to the current PAS administration.
PAS's Strengthened Position with Bersatu's Support

PAS has solidified its dominance in Kedah, now possessing sufficient numbers to maintain its leading position over Umno, a feat achieved with the assistance of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu). Historically, PAS's support base in Kedah was not extensive enough to secure state-level victories independently. However, this collaboration has altered the political landscape, enabling PAS to outperform Umno in the state.
Umno's Leadership Crisis and Lack of Direction

The political dynamics in Kedah highlight a profound leadership crisis within Umno, characterized by a perceived lack of direction and an inability to effectively counter criticisms from PAS and other Malay political entities like Bersatu and Pejuang. This internal struggle has left Umno vulnerable, struggling to articulate its message and rally its base.
Hindrances to Umno's Campaign Efforts

Umno's electoral campaign in Kedah has been notably hampered from the outset. The party's standing was weakened by the imprisonment of its former president, Datuk Seri Najib Razak. Further complicating matters, the current president, Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi, initiated significant leadership changes within the Kedah chapter without prior consultation with party leadership. The replacement of the state liaison chief from Datuk Seri Mahathir Khalid to Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom, who reportedly lacks substantial influence within the state's Umno circles and among the general populace, has further diminished the party's capacity to mobilize support.
Absence of Rallying Figures in Umno

Currently, Kedah Umno lacks a prominent figure capable of galvanizing party members and the public. In contrast, other political parties feature active leaders engaging with constituents. For instance, Dr. Mahathir has been seen in Jerlun, PAS's Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor addresses various constituencies daily, and PKR's Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is actively campaigning across the state. This absence of a unifying presence has led Umno to lose its momentum and struggle to re-establish its political relevance in Kedah, particularly in the wake of Najib's diminished role, which was pivotal in previous state elections in Melaka and Johor.

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Why is PAS gaining significant ground against Umno in Kedah?

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