Umno supreme council's decision to postpone the party polls can be interpreted as an admission that its president Najib Abdul Razak is under threat, said political analyst Wan Saiful Wan Jan.

"Umno is more or less admitting that their president feels threatened.

"At the same time Umno has done this many times in the past. It is bad practice and shows lack of faith in their own members," he told Malaysiakini.

The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (Ideas) head pointed out that even MIC's G Palanivel wanted to give his members a say in determining the leadership.

"Seems like Umno has less trust in its members compared to MIC," he said.

Furthermore, Wan Saiful ( photo ) said 18-month postponement would be seen by the public as an attempt to prevent Najib being challenged in the polls.

"Frankly, I don't think anyone will challenge Najib even if an election is conducted. But by making this decision (the impression is given)," he added.

In announcing the postponement this evening, Najib said apart from strengthening the party, the move would ensure that Umno and other BN component parties were stronger come the next general election.

Since April, the prime minister has come under incessant attack from former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Mahathir has called for Najib's resignation and warned that Umno and BN would be defeated in the next polls if the latter continued to lead.