Counter 'enemy's toxic, racial' politics - Zahid implores Umno members

 

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has called on party members to adopt a more progressive approach to counter the "toxic, racial" politics peddled by the "enemy".

"As we approach Umno's 77th anniversary, we can see the party's foe building up negative propaganda as they are now uneasy about Umno's position (in the government).

"They are busy sowing hatred and extreme prejudice in the minds of the rakyat, especially the youth, who are only starting to fulfill their democratic responsibilities," the deputy prime minister said in a statement in conjunction with Umno's 77th anniversary today.

Although the Bagan Datuk MP did not mention names, the "enemy" he referred to is believed to be the opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional, which has often been accused of resorting to racial narratives to gain political brownie points.

Zahid further said the perception is peddled consistently until a "dangerous reality" is formed in the people's minds.

"Political values, service, efforts to build a better country are all put aside and replaced with hate and revenge."

Realise responsibilities

Elaborating, the BN Chairman said youngsters are the most affected by the negative narrative.

"Imagine future leaders starting their political journeys via racial lens tinted with hate.

"I'm confident that 'the other side' is aware of the effects of their propaganda, but they deliberately turn a blind eye to it, for the lust of power," he said.

To counter this, Zahid urged Umno members to "look within themselves" to realise their responsibilities to society.

"A country's wellbeing is not only determined by the government and its leaders but also the choices and actions of millions of its people."

Zahid said that Umno's role in the coalition government had allowed the party to lead the country better by collaborating with other partners in the government.

"Therefore, it is crucial for us to revive Umno and turn it into a stronger party.

"Remember that the party started off with doing service and is not for the "exclusive". We must always put the rakyat's interests at the forefront." - Mkini