Other parties should not meddle in the Umno’s upcoming annual general assembly, says Umno Youth exco member Arman Azha Hanifah.

 

He was responding to Gerakan secretary-general Liang Teck Meng who had urged Umno to follow Gerakan’s lead in suspending its delegate who had made sensitive remarks during its national delegates conference last week.

 

“Whatever happened at the Gerakan conference is the party’s right. That’s their stance and we respect the decision the party made.

 

“But we ask that the Umno gathering not to be disturbed. It would be better for Gerakan to focus on strengthening its own party instead of interfering in the Umno assembly,” he told Malaysiakini .

 

Arman said even though Gerakan is part of BN, it is inappropriate for the party to interfere in Umno’s affairs.

 

Gerakan delegate Tai Lai Soon last Sunday sparked outrage after he said Malays were no different than their Chinese and Indian counterparts as they too are immigrants .

 

Tan later apologised but was suspended by the party and is being probed by the police after several reports were lodged against him for alleged sedition.

 

No need for suspension

 

Meanwhile, Federal Territories Umno secretary Syed Ali Alhabshee told Malaysiakini that Umno will not prevent its members from speaking up at its GA next month.

 

“We speak for the benefit of the rakyat. Don’t tell us what needs to be done. We do not have any agenda to victimise anyone.

 

“We speak based on facts, instead of creating stories. If we muzzle the delegates, they will not be able to speak openly,” said Syed Ali, who is also Cheras Umno division chief.

 

However, he said while Umno delegates are urged to speak up, sensitive matters such as racial issues are not encouraged.

 

“There is no need (for suspension). It’s normal for people to make their arguments. Surely leaders will vet and observe (the speeches).

 

“They can speak (openly), if we stop them how are they going to give their ideas? Just don't go overboard and be too racist. The leadership will handle it,” he said.