Future of Khairy tightly linked to Umno, assess analysts

In recent discussions, there have been whispers about the possible return of Khairy Jamaluddin to Umno, the party from which he was expelled in January 2023. According to Tawfik Yaakub from Universiti Malaya, Khairy believes that only Umno can provide him with a platform to rise and secure a brighter political future.

Tawfik Yaakub further explained that Khairy may not have been able to 'move on' and believes only Umno can provide him with the platform to rise. This sentiment is shared by others who view Khairy as different from leaders like Dr Akmal Saleh, who is sometimes viewed as rash on certain issues.

Khairy's appeal letter regarding his expulsion from Umno was submitted by his aide, but Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has not yet received it. The current Umno leadership is stable enough to accommodate a vocal voice like Khairy's, and the party benefits from figures like Khairy, who are seen as more intellectual and vocal.

However, not everyone shares this optimistic view. Azmi Hassan of Akademi Nusantara believes that Khairy's popularity carries little weight in politics. Despite his popularity through his Keluar Sekejap podcast and radio appearances, Azmi believes Khairy's political career remains adrift.

Azmi believes that Khairy needs Umno more than Umno needs him, but the relationship is still mutually beneficial. Tawfik Yaakub also stated that Khairy's political survival still depends on Umno.

Since his expulsion from Umno, Khairy has been active in the corporate and media world. However, his return to the political arena, if successful, could mark a significant turn in Malaysian politics.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Khairy's potential return to Umno will be a political comeback or a fruitless endeavour. The decision of Umno's leadership and grassroots will play a crucial role in determining Khairy's future in politics.