KUALA LUMPUR: Calls for Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to step down are getting louder, and joining the chorus today is Umno's Paya Besar division chief Datuk Ahmad Tajuddin Sulaiman.
Ahmad's statement today came after Pontian Youth chief Helmi Buang, Seremban Youth chief Zool Amali Hussin and a few other Umno members urged Ahmad Zahid to retire with dignity.
He pointed out that the conflict within Umno involving its Supreme Council members and Members of Parliament since 2018 has yet to subside, adding that there is still no solution to the problems.
"The directionless actions of the Supreme Council members and MPs are threatening Malay support for Umno, which we need to face the 15th general election.
"The unclear direction and weak determination are affecting the courage and fighting spirit of the 3.6 million Umno members," he said in the statement.
Ahmad also highlighted the many court cases involving Umno leaders, including Ahmad Zahid himself, who is facing a total of 87 charges for corruption and abuse of power, among others.
This, Ahmad said, is causing a strain on Umno, as the party is now forced to carry the burden of leaders who are currently facing criminal charges.
"For the sake of the Malay race, Umno, loyalty and the determination of the 3.6 million party members, Ahmad Zahid ought to let go of his responsibilities as the Umno president," Ahmad said.
In 2018, not long after taking over, Ahmad Zahid went on garden leave, leaving all of his responsibilities in both Umno and Barisan Nasional to his deputy president, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
This was after several Umno MPs left, citing loss of confidence in the "directionless" party under Zahid's helm. However, about a year later, Zahid made a comeback and took back all his positions.