KOTA TINGGI: Umno has denied rumours of a movement to overthrow President Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, allegedly orchestrated by the party's division chiefs.
Umno Vice-President Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said he was unaware of how such allegations surfaced, especially when the party's top leadership was focused on resolving emerging issues, including the pardon of Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
"Even if letters are signed by division leaders, the president will not be ousted. So, there's no need to sign such letters. They don't exist anyway," he said after a welfare visit to armed forces veterans here today.
Previously, it was reported that Umno supreme council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan also refuted allegations of any endeavours to oust Zahid by Umno division leaders.
Ahmad Maslan said Zahid, who is also deputy prime minister, had been actively working towards securing a full pardon for former party president Najib, currently serving a 12-year prison sentence.
Last Friday, the Federal Territories Pardons Board decided to reduce the jail sentence and fine imposed on former prime minister Najib.
In a statement released by its secretariat, Najib was approved for early release on Aug 23, 2028, and his fine was reduced from RM210 million to RM50 million.
Responding to the grassroots' dissatisfaction with the Pardons Board's decision, Khaled, who is also Umno Pasir Gudang division chief and defence minister, said the board had absolute authority, and the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong should be fully respected.
"Umno understands and acknowledges that the Pardons Board holds absolute power at the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
"Despite any unrest and pressure, it is beyond our control. Umno accepts and respects the decision. However, we will continue to strive for clemency for Datuk Seri Najib Razak."