KUALA LUMPUR – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he will not “sell off” Umno and Barisan Nasional although the party and the coalition had decided to join the unity government led by Pakatan Harapan.
According to Utusan Malaysia, Zahid said BN became part of the federal government to ensure the people’s needs were prioritised and to ensure the coalition remained relevant and accepted by the public.
“We reject extremist parties in terms of religion and race. We (BN) do not peddle religion and race. This, we will defend as our backbone,” Zahid was quoted as saying.
“But whatever we do must have the blessing of God, and sincerity for the sake of religion, race and country.”
Zahid said this during a people’s assembly event at the Rompin Community Hall here today.
The Bagan Datuk MP also told the public, including BN and Umno members, not to fear the coalition’s cooperation with PH.
“Do not be afraid as (Umno) deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and (BN secretary-general) Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir (and I) had met DAP and other PH leaders before the government was formed.”
“My first question is, how will the position of Islam, Bahasa Malaysia, the rights of the Malays and position of the rulers (be affected) if there is cooperation with DAP?”
“DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke had stated the party’s new leadership will respect the federal constitution, including the four matters, so why should we be afraid?”
Zahid also told BN leadership that the coalition was facing “a final test from God” and that it should not have internal friction moving forward.
“We have to join ranks, and unite in our hearts and minds. God willing, we will move forward with a unified spirit so that Umno remains consolidated and strong,” Zahid said.
“What’s most important is that we must promise to continue serving the people.” – The Vibes, December 6, 2022
