A group of Parti Rakyat Keadilan (Keadilan) leaders are expected to announce their decision to crossover to Umno in the presence of Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi tomorrow.

Led by Youth vice-president Zahid Md Arip, the group also comprises Negeri Sembilan chief Ruslan Kassim, Terengganu Youth chief and exco member Fakhrul Azman Abu Bakar and former Youth vice-chairperson Hamdan Taha.

According to a former Youth leader who requested anonymity, the defection will involve a dozen party members.

"One of them told me that they will be meeting Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak tonight to finalise certain terms,"said the ex-Keadilan leader, who is now in Umno.

"Those from outside Kuala Lumpur have been given flight tickets to enable them to make it for tomorrow's announcement," he added.

However, he was in the dark as to whether there were any monetary agreements involved.

"I don't think that is how Umno works. When I resigned from Keadilan last year, it was out of principle. I did not receive a single payment," he added.

'Not active leaders'

Meanwhile, Keadilan Youth chief Mohd Ezam Mohd Noor said he was aware of the defection and those involved.

However, he stressed that this would not disrupt the wing from continuing its struggle.

"This is because most of the defectors are not active leaders. In fact, one of them has stayed away from Youth programmes and ceramah (political talk) for the past two years..

"Although he has not been active but I can't deny him from holding a high position because he has been elected by members," he said when contacted.

Ezam also said that other members should not to be disheartened by the latest development and urged them to focus on the coming general election.

"I intend to concentrate working with the Angkatan Muda leaders announced recently. Those who defected can be easily replaced with more aspirant Youth members who have expressed support to the party," he added.

Zahid and the other named leader could not be reached for comments.

Last month, Keadilan Youth was embroiled in a controversy after sacking its secretary Lokman Nor Adam for allegedly attempting to lure party members into joining Umno.