KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Defence Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri opined that the posts of Umno president and deputy president should not be contested at this year’s party general assembly.
His justification was to preserve solidarity among members of the party which was the pillar of strength for Barisan Nasional (BN).
He said Abdul Rahim, who is Kudat Member of Parliament, said the success of the party leadership, Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, in retaining BN power in the government in the last 13th general election reflected that the party under Najib and deputy president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin was still strong and had the people’s confidence.
This took into account the current world political situation as a result of globalisation and communication and information explosion which had also changed the political landscape of all governments and countries in the world, he said in a statement here today.
He said countries which adopted the ‘Westminster’ democratic system, which was similar with the Malaysian democratic system, like Britain and Australia, would also face a tense situation, like a ‘hung’ parliament.
“The conclusion is, open contest for key posts in Umno will create the setting up of ‘camps’ and based on past experiences, it is feared, will lead to internal bickering and continuous politicking which will only weaken the party,” he added.
Hence, Abdul Rahim said, such a situation should be avoided, and instead, efforts should be made to enhance solidarity and unity among party members in preparation for the 14th general election. — Bernama