Leave big decisions to top leadership, Umno leaders say over Akmal's call

 

Umno Youth chief Dr Akmal Saleh’s proposal for the party to exit the coalition government and join forces with PAS continues to spark discussions among party members.

However, many grassroots leaders at the Umno annual general assembly today said they would leave the decision to the party leadership.

Speaking to Malaysiakini, Dusun Tua assemblyperson Johan Abd Aziz said Akmal’s proposal was his personal view, which has yet to be discussed officially within the party.

“That is his personal view. Ultimately, the decision must be made by the president and the supreme council,” he said.

Johan added that while Umno respects differences of opinion, party members must abide by the decision made by the top leadership.

“Once a decision is made, as members, we must abide by it, but so far, the matter has not been brought up for discussion. So, there is no decision yet,” he said.

Zahid’s rejection

On Jan 3, Akmal, who chaired the Umno Youth special convention, mobilised members to support his call for Umno to team up with PAS.

Umno Youth special convention on Jan 3

It is understood that the matter was also raised at a recent Umno political bureau meeting, and Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was reported to have rejected the call.

Following Zahid’s rejection, Akmal posted a cryptic message about “stepping down”. This subsequently drew challenges from Pakatan Harapan leaders for him to walk the talk.

Two days ago, Akmal stated that he would need the consent of Zahid and Malacca Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh before making any decisions regarding the posts he holds.

Seeking clarification

Kapar Wanita Umno chief Noor Haiza Mariena said she is attending the AGM to seek clarification from the top leadership regarding Akmal’s call for Umno to leave the coalition government.

However, she also stressed that such big decisions can only be determined by the top leadership.

Noor Haiza Mariena

“As grassroots leaders, we are here to hear the president’s mandate. Based on that, we will know our direction moving forward,” Haiza said.

Rizalman Mokhtar, the political secretary to the plantation and commodities minister, emphasised that Umno is a party that welcomes differing opinions.

“Everyone has the right to give an opinion because our party is very open. But ultimately, the decision must consider the best cooperation and benefits for the party,” he said, adding that Umno’s priority now is to bolster the party's strength.

Petaling Wanita Umno committee member Radhiah Hussein reminded party members that major decisions cannot be determined individually.

“It involves many meetings, cooperation, and other parties. One individual cannot make such a decision,” she said, adding that Umno members will back any decision made by the top leadership. - Mkini