Why is Umno still operating despite wrongdoings, asks Dr M

Bersatu chairperson Dr Mahathir Mohamad wants authorities to consider why Umno is still allowed to operate – and even "become rich again" – despite being dogged by allegations of financial impropriety.

Mahathir said that Umno was discussed at a Bersatu supreme council meeting today, adding that "it looks like it has become rich again."

"If they made a lot of money, what are they doing with the money? We are curious," he told reporters at a press conference after the meeting.

Mahathir was referring to a report in The Edge Markets, which said that the cash-strapped Umno managed to raise over RM2 billion through share sales.

At the press conference, he also alluded to the Registrar of Societies not taking action against Umno, which is planning to launch a charter of cooperation with PAS next month.

Bersatu president and Home Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, whose ministry oversees the ROS, was present at the meeting and press conference.

Mahathir also referenced the crisis Umno faced under his leadership in the 1980s, which led to it being deregistered.

"When I was president of Umno in the past, we had three divisions that did not meet and were disbanded. We also faced a situation when the party was deregistered."

"But now we see a situation where Umno has committed many offences but still carries on and has not had its registration cancelled."

Mahathir, the prime minister, stressed that he was not issuing any directives.

"We are not insisting that anyone take any specific actions. We are just giving our opinions on this matter." - Mkini