UMNO’s continued participation in the Unity Government is now in the hands of party delegates, with its position set to come under scrutiny at the party’s general assembly next week.
UMNO secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said the Umno General Assembly (PAU) remained the party’s ultimate platform to determine its political direction, including whether to maintain existing cooperation or pursue another course.
He said the question of UMNO’s role in the Unity Government was among the issues raised in the 157 motions submitted by divisions nationwide ahead of PAU 2026.
“We are open to whatever will be debated and decided at the general assembly.
“Among the motions raised is the question of UMNO’s direction in the context of the Unity Government and the government going forward,” he told a special press conference ahead of PAU 2026 at the UMNO Auditorium here today.
Asyraf Wajdi said the party leadership would not interfere with delegates’ right to raise issues concerning UMNO’s future, including the sentiments currently gaining traction within the party.
He said there was no reason for the party headquarters to dictate what delegates could or could not debate.
“It is not appropriate for the headquarters to restrict what should, can or cannot be debated. Let them voice their views.
“The current issues that have emerged can also help determine what the best direction is for UMNO,” he said.
Asyraf Wajdi said the party constitution placed the general assembly as the highest authority in deciding UMNO’s direction, policies and political position.
He added that views expressed by party president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi also reflected concerns raised by the grassroots, saying the president had continued to engage with members on their aspirations.
On whether UMNO would continue its cooperation with parties in the Unity Government, Asyraf Wajdi said there should be no attempt to pre-empt the delegates’ decision.
“That is something we leave to the delegates to decide,” he said. - September 3, 2026
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