KUALA LUMPUR – It is time to set aside differences and close ranks to secure Umno’s future, said vice-president Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said this is especially pertinent as Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Perikatan Nasional are no longer able to uphold the government.
Emphasising that the party as a unit is larger than any individual or personality, he called for a return to Umno as a driving force for Malays.
To achieve this, said the former Johor menteri besar, all levels of the Barisan Nasional lynchpin – from members to leaders and MPs – must unite in order for the party to strengthen itself and “focus on the right things”.
This comes amid speculation that Muhyiddin is set to have an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong tomorrow.
Yesterday, it was reported that a number of ministry officials were clearing their offices in anticipation of the prime minister’s resignation.
On Friday, Muhyiddin made a last-ditch attempt to secure support from the opposition by promising a number of reforms on the condition that he survives a confidence vote in Parliament.
The reforms include equal allocation for all MPs, more consultation with lawmakers on supply bills, and the implementation of Undi18.
Shortly after the announcement, a slew of political parties rejected the embattled leader’s purported olive branch, with some calling the move “daylight bribery”.
In a statement, Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi thanked the Pagoh MP for acknowledging that he no longer has the legitimacy to serve as prime minister.
Responding to Muhyiddin’s claim that no other MP has a majority in Parliament, Zahid warned him not to “usurp the power of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong”.
This sentiment was shared by the Pakatan Harapan presidential council, which accused Muhyiddin of turning his back on the functions of the king and Article 43(4) of the federal constitution. – The Vibes, August 15, 2021
