ZAHID WELCOMES KU LI’S CHALLENGE
But we must not split into two, like in 1987, says Umno vice-president
UMNO vic e - pre s ide nt Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has welcomed Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah’s decision to contest the party’s top post in the party election.
He, however, cautioned that the party could be split in two as it had in 1987 during the Gua Musang member of parliament’s first bid for the presidency.
“I will accept anyone who wins the race so that a strong Umno leadership can be reforged.
“But Umno cannot split into two as had taken place in 1987 even though we are now more open in our ways,” Zahid said in a statement yesterday.
He is believed to be alluding to the split that caused Umno’s deregistration, sparked by a chain of events following Tengku Razaleigh’s first bid for the presidency against Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad 31 years ago.
The latter, who was then serving his first tenure as prime minister, retained his position, leaving Tengku Razaleigh dissatisfied with the results.
The dispute that ensued caused Umno to split into two separate entities, while forcing the court to declare Umno an illegal organisation. Shortly after the court ruling, Dr Mahathir established Umno Baru as a splinter party.
Zahid said Tengku Razaleigh’s announcement was proof of Umno’s commitment that all posts were open for contest.
He said the party had to be strengthened despite its performance in the 14th General Election (GE14), emphasising the need for members to work as a team.
“The priority of looking after Umno members is more important than contesting a position.
“Positions are entrusted. They are not a political reward. Umno is now outside the corridors of power,” said Zahid who is also carrying out the duties of party president after Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s resignation following the poor showing of Barisan Nasional in GE14.
Zahid said campaigning in the party polls should not become a stage for character assassinations. He said the contest must be carried out in preparation to face external enemies instead of making enemies of one another.