'Right move by Mahathir to quit Umno'

Former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad has made the right move to leave Umno for the second time, Communications and Multimedia minister Salleh Said Keruak said today.

“This is probably for the best because when one’s relationship with the party or the party leader is no longer tenable, then it is pointless for one to remain in the party.

“Mahathir’s actions are hurting the party and for him to remain in the party while at the same time going against the party does not seem logical,” said Salleh in an immediate response to Mahathir’s announcement.

Writing on his blog, Salleh said Mahathir’s relentless attacks on Umno should have been done from outside the party.

“I am saddened by this episode not so much because he has, yet again, left Umno but because of the circumstances behind his resignation.

“No one can deny that Mahathir did a lot for the country in his 22 years as prime minister, although his term of office was not entirely free of blemish,” said Salleh in claiming that the recent series of events that led to Mahathir’s resignation would be remembered more than the good he has done.

Salleh also said that he hoped that Mahathir would not drag the country down to gutter politics.

“And with all sincerity I would like to wish Mahathir the very best for the future,” he said.

Mahathir had during a press conference at his office earlier today announced that he would leave Umno as the party is no longer what it used to be. -Mkini