Rembau MP Khairy Jamaluddin said former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak is free to build a public image through his "Bossku" branding but Umno cannot defend the indefensible.
Najib, who is also the former Umno president, is facing 42 charges over money laundering, abuse of power and criminal breach of trust.
"He has a right to defend himself in court and in the court of public opinion, including shaping his image outside of court.
"But we cannot defend the indefensible (menegah benang yang basah). Umno must have its values. If we have done wrong, we shouldn't be ashamed to admit our mistakes.
"If Umno members want to go (support Najib), go ahead. But Umno must move on. Many people may go to 'Bossku' events but we must have our values," he told a dialogue session organised by Sinar Harian in Shah Alam today.
The former Umno Youth chief had been critical of Najib after he led the BN to defeat in the last general election amid allegations of grand corruption, paving way for the first transition of power in the country since independence in 1957.
Khairy had previously said he regretted not being upfront with Najib amid purging of several Umno leaders who had criticised Najib, including then Umno deputy president Muhyiddin Yassin and vice-president Shafie Apdal.
Muhyiddin and Shafie went on to form Bersatu and Warisan respectively, and together with their Pakatan Harapan allies, defeated Najib in the last general election.
On a separate matter, Khairy welcomed Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's move to go on leave, paving way for Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan to take over as acting president.
"I don't have any personal problems with Zahid and Najib, but they represent the past," he said.
Mohamad is also the Rembau Umno chief. Khairy is his division deputy. - Mkini
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