PETALING JAYA, Aug 23 (Sin Chew Daily) – Other than Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia, Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Umno are also eyeing the deputy prime minister post, although Bersatu still has the best chances.

According to Bersatu sources, the party’s supreme council member Datuk Seri Azmin Ali and secretary-general Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin are the two contenders for the DPM post, while deputy president Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu is said to be out of the race now.

It is said that Azmin has an edge over Hamzah in the race. A source said Azmin and ten other MPs may join Umno after being appointed DPM.

The source also said it is unlikely for prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob to appoint two deputy prime ministers although he has the power of doing so.

“It is believed that GPS will be offered key cabinet positions instead.”

Meanwhile, Umno is also said to be interested in the DPM post.

Bersatu and Umno sources have confirmed with Sin Chew Daily that Umno is eyeing several key portfolios, including the finance, defense, home affairs and education ministries.

MCA’s president Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong is expected to continue helming the transport ministry in the new cabinet to be announced later this week.