KOTA BHARU – Datuk Puad Zarkashi’s decision to leave Umno following the Johor State Legislative Assembly dissolution issue is viewed as an emotional and rushed move that reflected immaturity, says Kelantan Umno information chief Datuk Zawawi Othman.
He said allegations that Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi acted under the influence of the Sultan of Johor in determining the timing of the State Legislative Assembly dissolution were unfounded.
According to Zawawi, the matter instead demonstrated the close relationship between Umno and the royal institution in managing state affairs for the benefit of the people.
“The issue of the State Legislative Assembly dissolution date is not a major one because Johor has already passed four years of administration and is naturally entering the phase leading up to the state election.
“Even if there is a difference in timing, whether earlier or later, it may only involve one or two weeks or a few months,” he told reporters on Thursday.
He added that Umno’s stance of respecting decisions made by the royal institution was in line with the party’s long-standing struggle to uphold the Constitutional Monarchy system.
“Umno is the only party that clearly places the agenda of defending the Malay Rulers institution in its constitution.
“Loyalty to the monarchy should not be turned into an issue that creates unnecessary controversy,” he said.
Earlier, Puad announced his resignation from Umno with immediate effect on Thursday, ending his long-standing membership in the party.
In an open statement posted on Facebook, he said the decision was made without pressure or hesitation and reflected a personal stand he had already reached.
“Without any regrets, I announce my resignation from Umno with immediate effect from today, June 25, 2026. Therefore, Umno does not need to go through the trouble of expelling me,” he said.