KOTA KINABALU: Several Sabah Umno leaders have voiced their support for having the top party positions - namely president, deputy and vice-presidents - open for contest.
Sabah Umno liaison deputy chairman Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak, who is also Kota Belud Umno chief, said he personally agrees that these important positions within Umno be open to challenge.
“Give party members the opportunity to choose who they think can bring strength to the party.
“Umno practices democracy and these rights must be respected,” he said.
Recently, Melaka Umno proposed that the top three positions should not be contested in the coming party elections, and should instead be handed to Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein and Khairy Jamaluddin, respectively.
However, Khairy who is Umno Youth chief, believed that the contest should open for contest by all to reflect Umno’s new direction.
Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, who is also Kinabatangan Umno chief, said opening up the three major positions for competition will add to the party’s strengths.
“I am all for these important positions to be opened. I think this is what the grassroots want to see.
“I believe it will improve Umno and reinforce the party’s struggles,” he added.
Beaufort Umno division chief Datuk Isnin Aliasnih said it was important to see the positions competed to ensure the party remains relevant.
“It will create a stronger team for Umno. Anyone who wishes to run should be allowed so long as they can carry out the duties and are not just after positions.
“Not only that, I am also open to those challenging the division chief positions (including in Beaufort) in order to strengthen Umno,” he added.