In a press conference, he emphasised that the motion was an “attempt at cheap publicity” by a certain individual and did not reflect the grassroots’ will.

“We will continue to defend the president (Muhyiddin Yassin) from all threats, whether within or without.

“Muhyiddin is our legitimate president and has received a full mandate from the grassroots to lead Bersatu until the end of his term,” Sinar Harian reported him as saying.

Shuhazlan claimed at least 60 division members, including himself, were not invited to the annual general meeting on Sunday.

“They claim the motion was approved unanimously. We worry that this was put in motion by an external agent to divide the party,” he said.

Tabled by Port Dickson Bersatu deputy chief Akkil Aizat Othman on Sunday, the motion called for a “planned leadership transition” with Bersatu deputy president Hamzah taking over as the party’s “main leader”.

“Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin would then be made an adviser and mentor,” said the motion, which did not explicitly suggest that Hamzah take over the Bersatu presidency.

Shuhazlan said narratives about replacing the president were not new and resurfaced whenever the PH-BN government appeared to be weak.

“This time it came in the form of an official motion. This raises questions about the true motive behind the motion,” he said.