KUALA LUMPUR – Umno’s Sembrong MP Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein has denied reports speculating that he was offered the prime minister post.
He also denied being involved in any negotiations, be it with Perikatan Nasional (PN) or Pakatan Harapan (PH).
“I have not been offered any position,” he posted on his Instagram page in the wee hours of the morning.
Two days ago, Hishammuddin said he will remain with Umno come rain or shine despite any circumstances.
His comments via Twitter come amidst speculation that Barisan Nasional (BN) – which includes Umno – is set to form the federal government with Pakatan Harapan (PH) despite his strong objections against working with the rival coalition.
At about 1am today, the Umno Supreme Council unanimously decided not to support PN in the formation of the new government, which could mean that the party would be throwing its support behind PH.
Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said the Supreme Council had taken into consideration details of the negotiations held between BN’s negotiation committee and the two other coalitions in recent days.
“The council unanimously decided to support and respect the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s decree for BN to support and take part in a unity government that is not led by PN, to ensure a stable and prosperous government can be formed,” he said.
In a bid to resolve the deadlock, the Agong held an audience with Anwar and PN chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on Tuesday, where he proposed the formation of a unity government.
Muhyiddin later revealed that his coalition has rejected any suggestion of cooperating with PH.
The king will hold a Conference of Rulers meeting today, as the country awaits the announcement of its 10th prime minister and the formation of the new government. – The Vibes, November 24, 2022