Ku Li may reconsider plan to retire

He says there may be a split among Gua Musang Umno members if he quits.

PETALING JAYA: Gua Musang lawmaker Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah, better known as Ku Li, may reconsider his decision to retire if told to do so by Umno members in the constituency.

The Umno veteran said since voicing his intention to leave the political arena before the next general election, many had approached and asked him to continue leading the Gua Musang division and remain as its parliamentarian.

This, he explained, was because of concerns that without him, there might be a split among the members, adding that there were also factions who had already started campaigning for certain individuals to replace him.

“Some members expressed anger over my decision to retire in the division’s monthly committee meeting in Bukit Chekati last night,” he was quoted as saying by Malay daily Utusan Malaysia.

“I can’t say anything yet, and let’s just see how their support is during the Gua Musang delegates assembly next month.”

According to Ku Li, if he proceeds with his retirement plan, his successor will be chosen by the members as he would not be the one to decide.

“I can’t decide on the matter as my choice may not be the same as theirs. There are plenty of young members who can replace me, but that is up to the members.”

He said the best time for him to retire was now, especially as he had been in politics for over 60 years.

“I should retire while I am still healthy and strong. There is no point (in continuing his service) if I am bed-ridden.”

Ku Li became the MP of Gua Musang in 1974, and has successfully retained the seat ever since.