Puad Zakarshi quits Umno, calls Onn Hafiz a ‘yes man’

 The former Batu Pahat MP also calls the Johor Umno chapter a ‘puppet bound by external control’.

Former Batu Pahat MP Puad Zarkashi said his departure from Umno would free him from accusations that he was betraying the party whenever he expressed dissent.

PETALING JAYA:

Umno Supreme Council member Puad Zakarshi today announced his immediate resignation from the party, saying he could no longer remain silent over what he described as Johor Umno’s lack of autonomy in decision-making.

In a strongly worded statement, Puad said he was leaving “without a heavy heart” and that his departure would free him from accusations of betraying the party whenever he expressed dissent.

“Now I am free to criticise Umno, a platform I still respect and cherish for the Malays and Malaysians,” he said.

Puad dismissed suggestions that his move was driven by personal interest, pointing out that he was leaving at a time when Umno was seen as regaining strength, with the return of prominent figures such as Khairy Jamaluddin, Hishammuddin Hussein and Noh Omar.

The former Batu Pahat MP alleged that Johor Umno was not free to make its own decisions, adding that this was admitted to him by Johor menteri besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi himself.

“There are many examples showing that Onn Hafiz is merely a ‘yes man’. This makes Johor Umno a puppet bound by external control,” Puad said.

He said he was compelled to exercise “political courage” by exposing what he called “wrongdoing before it worsens”.

Acknowledging that his decision may invite criticism and even threats to his safety, Puad said he was prepared to face the consequences.

“I do not want Umno to be led by ‘political cowards’ who cause BN candidates to be mocked as recycled, uninspiring and mediocre,” he said.

His resignation from Umno comes a day after he hinted at a big announcement on nomination day for the Johor state election. He had said that “there were things not right within the party’s state chapter”.

Johor Umno chief Noor Azleen Ambros yesterday slammed Puad, saying the latter should remain loyal to the party and abide by its decisions.

Puad hit back at Noor Azleen, saying he did not need to be taught about the meaning of loyalty, as he had stood by the party during its most difficult periods.

Last week, Puad said he would not defend the Rengit state seat in the election on July 11, citing his age. The 69-year-old said that those aged 50 and below should be fielded instead. - FMT