Kuala lumpur: Former Bersatu deputy president Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin has decided not to appeal his expulsion from the party. Hamzah said he will, for now, remain an Independent member of parliament (MP) and continues to command the support of 19 of the 25 Bersatu MPs aligned with Perikatan Nasional (PN).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hamzah stated, "I will not appeal. I am a free man now. I no longer need to listen to things I am forced to do against my will," during a press conference following a briefing on his political direction and reset. Regarding his position as Opposition Leader, Hamzah mentioned that an announcement would be made in due course, and added that the post in the Dewan Rakyat depends on the support of the majority of opposition MPs.

When asked about his future political direction, Hamzah hinted at eventually seeking a 'new home,' either by forming a new party or joining an existing one. Addressing queries about his position within PN, he mentioned that the matter would be decided at a later stage, as he has yet to determine whether to remain on the platform or pursue a new alignment.

Speaking after a special Bersatu Supreme Council meeting earlier today, secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali noted that Hamzah has 14 days to appeal his expulsion to the party's Disciplinary Board. Azmin added that the party has yet to name a successor to the Opposition Leader post in the Dewan Rakyat.

Meanwhile, in Kota Bharu, PN Chief Whip Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan commented that Hamzah's expulsion from Bersatu does not automatically affect his position as Opposition Leader. He mentioned that the PN Supreme Council is expected to meet next week to discuss several matters, including appointing a new chairman to replace Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin. The meeting is likely to be held between Feb 19 and 22, although the date has yet to be finalised, and PAS will propose a candidate for the post.