PKR: Muhammad’s departure due to personal reasons

KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib’s return to Umno is likely due to personal reasons and has nothing to do with politics, said PKR vice-president Tian Chua.

“I believe it is strongly due to personal reasons. I don’t think it has anything to do with problems that he could be facing in the party (PKR). We respect his decision and wish him well,” said Tian Chua, who is Batu member of parliament.

He said Muhammad’s departure would not affect PKR much, but thanked him for his contributions to the party.

PKR vice-president Dr Shaharuddin Badaruddin said Muhammad’s leaving, while a surprise, was expected.

“Politicians switching parties is a norm before a general election. Before Muhammad announced that he would rejoin Umno, we heard rumours that four or five people would leave the party.

“We don’t know if there will be more, but it is not surprising.”

Shaharuddin said Muhammad would be able to contribute to Umno, but his departure would not affect PKR.

“Urban voters may not know him since he was Selangor menteri besar almost 20 years ago.

“Muhammad did not hold any position in PKR, but we want to thank him for his contributions.

Prior to Muhammad’s return to Umno, he joined Pas in 2013, then PKR in 2015. When he joined PKR, he had said he would help the party win votes in Selangor in the next general election.

“With his return to Umno, he will have to think of another reason to give his supporters,” Shaharuddin said.