Ku Li still a respected Umno veteran in Gua Musang, analysts say

SHAH ALAM - Umno veteran Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah’s leadership is still strong among Gua Musang Umno grassroots but great challenges awaits him in rebuilding Umno.

Universiti Teknologi Mara political analyst Dr Abdul Aziz Azizam said his win was not a surprise as Tengku Razaleigh or famously known as 'Ku Li' is a popular face in Gua Musang.

"It is not a surprise that Ku Li won the parti election for Gua Musang division due to his reputation and grassroots immunity that he has built since 50 years ago.

"The thing that matters now is to what extent he can rebuild the umno from the inside," he said.

He further said that if changes are what he’s looking for, Tengku Razaleigh needs to make them now.

With Tengku Razaleigh still reigning in Umno Gua Musang division, political expert Dr Oh Ei Sun said the veteran politician must have kept Umno Gua Musang in good grace over the years.

"So, there is no reason to change horses now, especially when Kelantan as a whole is going to Pas anyway.

"It’s not as if changes in leadership in Gua Musang alone is going to make a significant difference," he said.

Despite voters in the area increasingly having a different view, Dr Oh said the Umno veteran is still a respected leader for them.

Meanwhile, International Islamic University Malaysia political expert Dr Syaza Shukri said Tengku Razaleigh is indeed a respected candidate among his competitors.

"Without someone who can truly challenge him, members go for Ku Li because at least he has a good track record," she said.

She further said the other two challengers, Che Mohd Izani Che Musa and Datuk Saari Lembut were not strong contenders.