Why is Umno hesitant to form new electoral pacts?

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Umno's Hesitancy Stems from Past Negative Experiences and a Desire for Internal Strength

Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has expressed a cautious approach towards forming new electoral pacts, citing lessons learned from previous political alliances. He indicated that while other parties have shown interest in discussing electoral arrangements for the 16th general election, Umno is not yet prepared to engage. This hesitancy is rooted in a desire to first solidify Umno's own position and avoid repeating past mistakes.
Lessons Learned from Previous Alliances

Ahmad Zahid alluded to the short-lived Muafakat Nasional (MN) political alliance between Umno and PAS as a key reason for his current stance. He advised against being "bitten by the same snake twice in the same place," suggesting that Umno had negative experiences with the MN pact. The MN alliance, formed in September 2019 with the objective of challenging the then-Pakatan Harapan government, ultimately proved to be an unsuccessful venture for Umno.
Emphasis on Internal Party Strength

Umno's current strategy, as articulated by Ahmad Zahid, prioritises strengthening the party's own standing before entering into negotiations with other political entities. He stressed that a strong and resolute party position is crucial for effective negotiation, implying that Umno must ensure its internal stability and influence before seeking external collaborations. This approach suggests a focus on rebuilding and consolidating Umno's power base.
Rejection of Immediate Cooperation with PAS

Furthermore, Ahmad Zahid has explicitly stated that Umno will not cooperate with PAS as long as Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang remains its president. This decision is directly linked to the "bitter experience" Umno encountered during its collaboration with PAS under the MN political pact. This indicates a specific and ongoing reluctance to engage with PAS leadership due to past grievances.

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Why is Umno hesitant to form new electoral pacts?

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