KUALA LUMPUR – Contrary to the call from some segments in Umno, former vice-president Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein vowed that the party will not cooperate with long-time nemesis DAP.
In his speech at the Sembrong division meeting today, he reiterated that Umno’s struggle remains to champion Islam and Malays.
“We, who are loyal to the party, must always remain steadfast that Islam and the rights of the Malays cannot be gambled away.
“Both are the responsibilities of Umno members, forever.
“Today, we can hear voices, and note those who want such cooperation that has never been in our dictionary since the formation of our party 74 years ago.
“It is enough that Pakatan Harapan, which is backed by DAP, ruled the country for 22 months.”
He warned members to be careful of those extending cooperation.
“Umno cannot change its stance. We will stay strong based on our struggles.
“Let us not gamble our struggles and stand for the sake of power.”
He added that members should be prepared for the next general election.
“The 15th general election can happen anytime. It is time for us to prepare, and our machinery must be strengthened.”
Pulai Umno became the first division to call on its leaders to quit the Perikatan Nasional government, to force snap elections.
Division head Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed told Free Malaysia Today that delegates at the annual general meeting on Friday unanimously decided that it is in Umno’s best interest to leave before being blamed for the coalition’s failure to govern.
“This is why we need a general election soon to reset Parliament. We cannot afford to lose non-Malay votes, or even Malay votes. The longer PN is in power, Umno will be tainted by its association with them,” he was quoted as saying.
The Johor Umno deputy chief said the party will lose non-Malay support if it stays in the pact.
“It is better for us to look at other options, like PKR or DAP, to secure the non-Malay votes.” – The Vibes, January 3, 2021
