PH is weak, let’s unite, Umno members told

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno vice-president Ismail Sabri Yaakob has urged party members to look beyond Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s return from garden leave.

He said there were bigger issues to handle in the party than questioning his return.

“The issue is about ways to strengthen the party. We need to unite as the present government faces problems due to internal problems in PKR and other component parties,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby.

He called on Umno members to unite and focus on strengthening the party and to be the voice of the rakyat.

The Bera MP added that Zahid’s position had been determined during the Umno election last year and members could have a re-look at the next party election.

“For now, there is no need to think of party positions,” he added.

On Sembrong MP Hishammuddin Hussein’s call to ensure Zahid’s return does not split the party, Ismail said there would be no issue if all members backed Zahid.

“But if everyone has their own opinion and wants to continue with their differences, then the party will be disunited. We as members must make sure the party is strong. We should forget about our personal opinions and do what is important for the party,” he added.

On June 30, Zahid, who is facing a total of 87 corruption charges, announced his return from garden leave — six months after he had made the decision to do so. - FMT