KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed has bade farewell to Umno after spending more than 40 years in the party.
In a statement, the Jeli member of parliament said he believes that Umno’s direction and his political principles are no longer aligned, hence his decision to quit the party.
He said he is also unconvinced that Umno’s rejuvenation process has begun.
Mustapa, who was Kelantan Umno liaison commitee chairman, said he, like many others, had after the 14th general election, observed the Malaysian political landscape, Umno’s and Barisan Nasional’s direction as well as the future of the country.
He said, based on several latest developments, it would be difficult to repair the “trust deficit” and the party’s image. There are no signs, he said, that the majority of the multi-racial community would return to the party’s struggle.
“To remain relevant in today’s national political dynamic, Umno, as the main thrust of Barisan Nasional, cannot depend solely on the support of the Malays and the Bumiputera.
“In principle, my stand is that Umno should become a party that is inclusive, moderate and centrist. Umno must continue to champion the interests if the Bumiputera and Islam yet never once disregarding the interests of other races and religions. I believe that this is the best way to build a framework of a diverse Malaysia.
“But in my view, the direction taken by Umno now is no longer in line with my political principles. I’m also unconvinced that the party’s rejuvenation process has begun.
“Based on this, after a lot of thinking, I have decided to resign as an Umno member, after more than 40 years of serving the party,” he said.
Mustapa thanked his friends from Jeli, Kelantan and nationwide who had helped him during his term with Umno.
“I pray that this country will remain peaceful, prosperous and respected on the international stage. May this new chapter in Malaysia lead to a mature and inclusive political culture, apart from placing integrity in administration as a priority.
“It is time that all parties, regardless of political leaning, find a common ground for the sake of the people. In Allah we trust,” he said.