A well-placed source told FMT Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is likely to propose Rauf for the post when he meets Melaka governor Ali Rustam.

Rauf, the Tanjung Bidara assemblyman, had been repeatedly linked to the chief minister’s post since Barisan Nasional won the Melaka state election in November 2021.

Sulaiman was the chief minister before the state election while Rauf was the state assembly speaker. He was reappointed chief minister after BN’s landslide win in the state polls.

However, rumours that he would be replaced emerged as soon as the state election results were in, with Rauf accused of trying to lobby top party leaders for the chief minister’s post. Rauf was also absent when Sulaiman was sworn in.

Rauf later denied talks of any turmoil in the newly formed state government, saying Sulaiman had the backing of all Umno division chiefs.

Rauf was later appointed executive councillor for industry, investment and entrepreneurial development.

In December, Sulaiman denied speculation that he would be resigning from the post after a report said he would be stepping down on Jan 3 to make way for Rauf.

Meanwhile, Rauf claimed that certain quarters were trying to drive a wedge between him and Sulaiman by spreading malicious rumours about their relationship.

Yesterday, Zahid confirmed Sulaiman’s resignation, just two days after saying Melaka may witness the formation of a unity government soon.