He may be facing the two rising sons of Umno politics, but Dr Mohd Khir Toyo sees himself edging them and becoming party youth chief in the coming party polls.

The former menteri besar of Selangor holds no fear for the PM's son-in-law Khairy Jamaluddin and former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's son Mukhriz.

When asked about the contest in December, Khir in his usual composed manner said that both Mukhriz and Khairy had every right to compete but he was confident of being the right person for the job.

selangor adun ceremony 220408 khir toyo "It's a free for all situation. But I have the experience, I am a party supreme council member and was a youth leader in Selangor," said Khir.

"The party needs a new but experienced leader that can inject new idealism in the party and I believe I can do that," he added.

The feedback Khir has received from Umno grassroots has been encouraging, as he has been actively meeting with branch youth leaders in his nationwide campaign.

Khairy who is the present deputy youth chief and Rembau MP has not declared his candidacy, but looking at his activity lately in the party, Khir is sure he is competing.

"I know he is going to contest for the post judging by the way he is moving on the ground," said the Selangor state opposition leader.

hishamuddin hussein khir toyo mukhriz khairy jamaluddin umno It is uncertain whether Khairy is withholding his announcement because of the current political climate in the country, however he is a firm favourite considering the incumbent Education Minister Hishammuddin Hussein is likely to seek higher office.

Jerlun MP Mukhriz and youth exco- who has asked the prime minister repeatedly to step down - has already expressed his intention to contest.

Umno needs new leadership

Khir also spoke on the transition of power plan proposed by party president Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, saying the handover to his deputy Najib Abdul Razak should be done even quicker.

Abdullah, after enduring endless assaults from within the party as well as the opposition since the general election, announced on July 10 that he will step down as prime minister and party president in mid 2010.

Khir, also the Sungai Panjang assemblyperson, is an ardent critic of Abdullah and blames him for the electoral losses.

"The only way the party can be rejuvenated is by the change of leadership so that the new blood can inject the much needed idealism that is apparently lacking in the current party leadership," said Khir.