Umno committed to upholding unity govt, says Zahid

Umno remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold the government despite ongoing attempts to undermine Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, said Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The Umno president said the party believes being part of the current government allows for various benefits to be enjoyed by all, down to the grassroots level.

“Are there attempts to reduce the majority and push for a vote of no confidence against the prime minister? The answer is yes. We will stand by the unity government because we believe that it offers numerous advantages for us all.

“Among them Islam and the Malay agenda, which remains central to our mission... without sidelining other ethnic groups and religions,” the deputy prime minister said at the Umno President Grassroots Tour with the Padang Terap Umno division today.

Zahid also expressed gratitude to coalition partners within the government who have consistently supported Umno, particularly during by-elections that led to the party's victories.

“In the Tioman and Pelangai by-elections, our victory was possible due to the support of our (coalition) friends. Now, in Kuala Kubu Baharu, it is only fitting for Umno to reciprocate that support. The Umno machinery must work hard to ensure victory for the government candidate,” he said.

Zahid also said that despite Umno only holding 26 seats in Parliament, it does not signify that the opposition is strong.

“Rest assured, they are not strong… but we are weak. Why are we weak? Because some among us have been influenced by their (opposition) propaganda,” he said.

On the Madani Aidilfitri event in Jitra tonight, to be attended by Anwar and Kedah Menteri Besar Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, Zahid said he had reminded the menteri besar to mind his language during the event.

He stressed the importance of maintaining harmony between the state government and the federal administration.

“I told Nusi (Sanusi), stay focused and be tactful in your speech tonight as I'll be watching,” he said.

- Bernama