THERE is a need to take disciplinary action against former UMNO Supreme Working Council (SWC) member Datuk Mohd Puad Zarkashi, following his decision to leave the party yesterday.
Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Puad Zarkashi made his own decision to leave the party and is no longer with Umno.
“He has quit, so there is no need for any disciplinary action. We appreciate all the contributions he has made to Umno over the years, and I wish him well,” he said.
Yesterday, Puad Zarkashi announced his resignation from Umno with immediate effect, claiming Johor Umno was not free to make decisions, especially in the face of the Johor State Election (PRN).
The former Johor State Legislative Assembly Speaker (DUN) also claimed that Johor Umno was “controlled” by the Palace in making certain decisions and was nothing more than a puppet.
Commenting on the actions of several leaders who left Umno, Ahmad Zahid said the party respected the decisions made by each individual.
However, he said Umno appreciated the loyalty of old members as well as the support of new ones who remained with the party and were committed to strengthening Barisan Nasional (BN) in Johor.
"The important thing is to give support to Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and all 56 Barisan Nasional candidates for the Johor State Election, which will be held soon," he added. – June 26, 2026
