Zahid should remain Umno president next term

SHAH ALAM – Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s leadership needs to be maintained until the next term in order for the working relationship with Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and ministers in the Unity Government to last.

Umno Pasir Salak Division deputy chief Khairul Azwan Harun said the wisdom and leadership qualities displayed by Zahid should be appreciated and celebrated by Umno members as the country endured the economic recovery phase.

Khairul said Zahid, as the leader of the party, played a big role by understanding the advice of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Riayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Malay Rulers.

"Umno was lucky despite losing many seats in Parliament and State Legislative Assembly (DUN) in the 15th General Election (GE15), they managed to be in the Unity Government and trusted to lead several important ministries.

"Umno’s cooperation and support to the Prime Minister is a testimony to the political maturity and priorities that have been poured into place," he explained in a statement on Thursday.

Khairul added that the partnership and team spirit would produce good policies and governance in addition to the reform programme that could restore the confidence of investors and the people.

"Hopefully, this Unity Government will succeed in raising the socio-economic level of the people as expected," he said.