As the son of third prime minister Hussein Onn and nephew of second prime minister Abdul Razak Hussein, it was believed that Hishammuddin Hussein was destined to helm the nation like his cousin Najib Abul Razak.
However, after Umno and BN's defeat in the 14th general election under the stewardship of his cousin, speculation is rife that Hishammuddin would decide to throw in the towel as well.
A party insider told Malaysiakini that the former defence minister might not contest any posts in the coming Umno election. This includes not defending his current position as vice-president.
Malaysiakini has contacted Hishammuddin for comment.
Following Najib's resignation as both Umno president and BN chairperson after the May 9 polls, Hishammuddin is serving as acting number two whereas deputy president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is carrying out the functions of the president.
A political observer with close ties to Umno did not express surprise when told that Hishammuddin might decide against contesting.
“He never struck me as being too ambitious.
“More so now that Umno is no longer in government. And plus, he is probably still feeling tired and dejected,” the observer told Malaysiakini.
In the wake of the announcement that all the top positions in Umno would be open to contest in the coming party polls, various speculations have been making the rounds.
Among the names bandied about for the top positions include Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah, Mohamad Hassan, Mustapha Mohamed, Johari Abdul Gani and Khairy Jamaluddin.
Umno is in need of a strong and vibrant leadership if there is to be hope for the party to rise from this debilitating defeat.
Umno branches would hold their elections during their annual meetings that would take place from May 19 to June 10.
Those who wish to contest for top party positions in the supreme council would have to file their nomination papers from June 1 to June 17.
The election date for the party's top positions has yet to be announced. -Mkini
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.