KUALA LUMPUR: The proposal for the top two positions in Umno to be uncontested will allow the party to focus on winning the upcoming 14th General Election, said an Umno Youth leader.
Umno Youth exco member Nazir Hussin Akhtar Hussin also said it was important the retain the “solid partnership” between Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Razak and party vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Zahid is carrying out the duties of Umno deputy president following the departure Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who was sacked for breaking party rules.
“I feel that the proposal is timely because Umno should not be distracted by the party polls next year.
“It is not as important as our mission to win GE14, which will also be held in 2018,” he said during an interview with Berita Harian today.
He was responding to the no-contest proposal was made by Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin during his policy speech at the wing’s annual general assembly at Putra World Trade Centre here.
It was reported that several party divisions, including Padang Rengas Umno will table motions in the Umno general assembly for the top two positions to be uncontested.
“We need to ensure that all party members remain loyal to the top party leadership and we must make sure that all personal interests and ambitions are set aside,” Nazir added.
He, however, said the race the for Umno vice-presidents’ posts should remain open to allow younger leaders like Khairy to fill more senior positions in the party.
Nazir said this would ensure the continuity of the Umno leadership, as well as the relevancy of 71-year-old party.
Sabah Wanita Umno delegate Rabiah Abdul Salleh who seconded the proposal said the move would help maintain the strong relationship and unity that have been instilled in the party members.
This is important as the nation draws closer to the 14th General Election, she said.
She added that there was not a need for the two posts to be contested as Umno members have recognised the leadership of party president Datuk Seri Najib Razak and deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
"Personally I agree with the proposal because it is important that we protect the strength and the party's peace and harmony.
"Not having them contest for the posts basically means that all members recognise that the current leadership is the best," she said.
Rabiah said the move would still be considered as democratic as all the party members have agreed on the matter.
"Everyone has agreed that there is no one more qualified than our two current leaders to fill the positions," she added.
Hulu Selangor Wanita Umno delegate Normah Ismail said the motion, if approved would enable the members to direct their focus solely on the general election.
"The party is at its best level now. Changes would only disrupt the party's preparedness that has been set in motion.
"We also have to retain strong bond between Najib and Zahid. They are a good team and we can see that the people are benefiting from it," she said.
Meanwhile, Kongres Indian Muslim Malaysia (Kimma) Wanita chief Majunun Meher Shaikh Abdul Kader said both leaders have proven their capabilities and worthiness.
"There is no reason to make any changes. The president and the acting deputy president have contributed a lot to the people.
"They walk the talk, unlike the opposition counterparts," she added.