Former minister Rafidah Aziz is not convinced about the existence of a plot spearheaded by an Umno leader to topple the government and Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

She expressed shock over the claim, which is being peddled by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

"It must be remembered that plots or conspiracies would not determine (the leadership) but the people as voters in the coming general election.

"So put the people first and administer the nation as best as possible," Rafidah said in a Facebook posting.

Known as the 'Iron Lady of Malaysia', the former Wanita Umno chief said it is not beneficial for those in Umno and BN to topple the leader or overthrow the government.

"Is that not akin to cutting off your nose because you hate the face?" she added.

Rafidah also cautioned that when caught up in the act of attacking and removing certain individuals, it is forgotten that party members are watching all that unfold.

"Certain quarters will exploit the situation. The people who have voting rights are watching the games and political plays. They will decide when the time comes to vote," she said.

Saddled with problems

Therefore, she called on Umno and BN not to view the situation from a short-term perspective.

Rafidah pointed out the nation is still saddled with problems facing 1MDB and the RM2.6 billion political donation.

She lamented that the national economy was in limbo due to the global situation and erosion of confidence among investors.

"We are faced with parochialism, narrow perception and views of the ultras, which are dividing us.

"In short, it is crucial for the current leaders to completely focus on administering the nation and solving the problems," she added.

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