Ahmad Bashah sworn in as 12th Kedah MB (Updated)

ALOR STAR: Bakar Bata assemblyman Datuk Seri Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah took his oath of office as Kedah Mentri Besar today.
He took his oath and received his writ of appointment before the Kedah Regency Council chaired by Tan Sri Tunku Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah in Istana Anak Bukit here at 10am.
His oath taking was witnessed by Kedah High Court Judge Datuk Hashim Hamzah and Kedah Syariah Court Chief Judge Datuk Syeikh Abdul Rahman Abdullah.
Ahmad Bashah, who is also Kedah Umno deputy chief, was accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Hizam Awang Ahmad.
Ahmad Basha replaces Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir after a two-week long political crisis which saw Umno divisions drop their support for the latter.
His appointment was met by support from his party colleagues with Defence Deputy Minister Datuk Johari Baharom leading the way.
The Kubang Pasu MP said he was confident that Ahmad Bashah can lead the state to greater heights.
He said the newly sworn in MB was an experienced politician and an administrator pointing to his time as a deputy minister.
“I am confident of his capabilities,” he said when approached by the media after the oath taking ceremony.
Also giving his vote of confidence was Kuala Nerang assemblyman Datuk Badrul Hisham who said members will rally around Ahmad Bashah.
“I hope everyone can give their full support,” he said when met by reporters.
Jeneri assemblyman Mahadzir Abdul Hamid also expressed his confidence towards the new MB.
He urged party members to close ranks so Umno can face the 14th General Elections as a united force.
“It is good that we can all work together to face the election confidently,” he said.
Jitra assemblyman Datuk Aminuddin Omar meanwhile was sanguine over the matter however.
The former Exco man, who is widely seen as a supporter of Mukhriz, said he was willing to accept any changes in the Exco line up.
Kedah Legislature Deputy speaker Datuk Azmi Che Husin meanwhile urged the people to move on.
"I hope everybody is calm and believe me that today will be better than yesterday,” he said while also urging Kedah people to give the new MB a chance.