Umno members must leave personal sentiments aside and safeguard the interest of BN by voting any candidate picked for the 13th General Election to ensure a resounding victory for the party.   

Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said this when addressing a group of 7,000 grassroots leaders comprising branch chairmen, Wanita heads, Pemuda and Puteri heads during a closed-door meeting at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) today.

Mahathir said though names of candidates from some divisions would be proposed but due to certain reasons, a different candidate may be selected and he or she might not be from the party, nevertheless Umno members must support the candidate to ensure victory.

"Dr Mahathir stressed that what was important is for BN to win by a two-thirds majority at all levels, state or national, because only that result can determine whether a government can be formed or not,” said Selangor BN coordinator Datuk Seri Mohd Zin Mohamed in a statement today.

According to Mahathir, it would be pointless for a certain person who was proposed, won the seat, but BN does not have enough seats to form the government.

He also reminded Umno and BN component party leaders at all levels to refrain themselves from sabotaging any candidate just because their candidate was not chosen.

“He (Dr Mahathir) also advised Umno members to do anything that can hurt the feelings of others or raise any sensitive issues. Give priority to the BN party, unity and work together to remain strong,” said Mohd Zin.

The former prime minister urged all members to be loyal, pray for a win and rally behind the party by voting any candidate chosen to contest under the BN ticket. 

- Bernama