JOHOR BARU: Umno deputy president and former defence minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein pledged that he would remain loyal to Umno for life.
This as he earlier announced that he would not be contesting in the party's upcoming polls for the 2018-2021 term.
However, the Sembrong member of parliament said he would continue with the struggle to rebuild Umno from the state level up.
“I have accepted the 14th General Election results with an open heart. I take responsibility for the loss,” Hishammuddin told a press conference at the state Umno headquarters here.
“It is a clear signal that Umno cannot operate as usual and demands a total transformation.
“Umno is facing party elections. It is the appropriate time for the party to undergo a transformation.”
Hishammuddin said many party members had offered themselves as candidates because they wanted to rebuild Umno. He said they should be given the opportunity to lead.
“I pledge to remain loyal to Umno for life and will give my undivided support to the new party leadership chosen by members.
“I will not run away from my struggles. The decision not to contest was not an easy one for me.
“I am not afraid of the changes that we need to make. I will not leave the party.
“Nobody should doubt my commitment to the survival of the party.”
Hishamuddin said he had informed acting Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi about his decision and discussed how he could help the party at the national level.
He said his decision to not defend his deputy president’s post did not mean that his political career was over.
“A post is not important in contributing to the struggle and serving the party,” Hishammuddin added.
“In fact, besides supporting the candidacy of Johor Umno Liaison Committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohamad Khaled Nordin as vice-president, I will go to the divisions to explain my decision after Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
“This time around, the struggle is not about individuals but the strength of the team. It is not about position but contribution to the party.
“Let’s take the GE14 results as a catalyst to build an Umno that is closer to the people’s hearts.”