KUALA LUMPUR – Despite intense speculation over rifts with Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob described the Umno president as a “good friend and a brother”.
The prime minister went on to deny having issues with Zahid, saying the party boss is like an elder brother and talks of falling out only come from outsiders.
“He has been my brother’s best friend since they were together in Universiti Malaya…Even during the days when I played truant, I used to hang out in his room,” he was quoted as saying by Malaysiakini.
Ever since Ismail Sabri took over as prime minister, political observers have kept a close eye on their relationship as previously the country’s top post is typically held by an Umno president, not a vice-president.
In addition, Zahid is facing 47 charges linked to Yayasan Akalbudi funds, which the prime minister has stayed cleared off, appearing to not interfere with the judiciary.
The interview between Ismail Sabri and selected media organisations was held at Seri Perdana to mark his one year in office.
The prime minister also confirmed that he has met with top Umno leaders to discuss the coming general election, but the top five understood that he holds the power to advise the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on dissolving Parliament. – The Vibes, August 21, 2022
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